Event Details
The Japan Edit
by Tokyo Broadcasting System
Pitch Session & Market: Performing Arts & Immersive Experiences
Note: Both sessions will feature identical content. The program is the same on either dates.
Featured Works
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01
Joan of Arc
Based on the novel by Naoki Prize-winner Kenichi Sato, the script of this work vividly illuminates the "historical voids" hidden in the story through a unique perspective: How did a single girl move the heart of the isolated Charles VII? And why did he entrust the full authority of the army to her?
Bringing together Japan's leading creators, this stage production visualizes its message through a spectacle of unprecedented scale. The delicate yet bold direction, which pays attention to every detail, and the music that expresses the worldview by dissolving the boundaries of space, can be called the pinnacle of the Japanese spirit of "Monozukuri (Craftsmanship)" and aesthetic refinement. Furthermore, the one-of-a-kind and overwhelming sense of scale created by the 100 cast members proves its value as content the world should be proud of.
In the past three runs, it has welcomed Japan's representative leading actresses, achieving enthusiastic success and receiving high acclaim from various circles. -
02
Standing Ovation
"Standing Ovation" is a dynamic backstage comedy-drama that centers on the production of a historical play titled "George II." The story takes a suspenseful turn when a rumor spreads that a murderer has snuck into the theater. As the cast and crew scramble to find the intruder, the entire venue—including the audience—gets swept up in the frantic search. This immersive experience blurs the line between the stage and the seats, challenging the company to overcome the chaos and ultimately earn a true standing ovation from an audience caught in the middle of the mystery.
Will the curtains rise on a success, and can this embattled company ultimately win a true standing ovation from an audience caught in the middle of a crime scene?
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03
El Ninja VS. Cyborg Dragon
This production redefines the very concept of immersion. What begins as a conventional theatrical performance quickly transforms: the audience suddenly finds themselves swept into an actual film shoot. And once the shoot concludes, the return to their seats—not just as viewers, but as participants—watching the very film they have just helped create. It is the ultimate form of immersive entertainment, made possible only by TBS, a company uniquely positioned at the intersection of television broadcasting and theatrical production.
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04
Ballet "Madame Butterfly"
Choreography by Tetsuya KumakawaJourney to a Japan of the late 19th century — a world no one has ever seen.
Giacomo Puccini’s masterpiece opera Madame Butterfly, set in Japan, is transformed into a full ballet for the first time by Japan’s leading dancer and choreographer, Tetsuya Kumakawa. After becoming the first Japanese gold medalist at the Prix de Lausanne, Kumakawa joined The Royal Ballet as the first Asian dancer in its history and rose to become its first Japanese Principal, earning international acclaim. Upon returning to Japan, he founded K-Ballet, which consistently performs to sold-out audiences and is now recognized as one of the country’s premier ballet companies.
In this production, Kumakawa reimagines the iconic opera through a distinctly Japanese aesthetic and spiritual sensibility. A beauty never before seen on stage emerges as Eastern elegance merges with Western classical ballet. Set to Puccini’s unforgettable score, a living UKIYO-E unfolds before the audience — a timeless love story between a geisha and an American officer that transports viewers into the heart of 19th-century Japan. -
05
From Hello Kitty(Sanrio)
The show begins with the stories of Japan’s iconic "KAWAII" (Sanrio) characters, including Hello Kitty, My Melody, Kuromi, Cinnamoroll, and Pompompurin. As the narrative unfolds, the characters themselves appear on stage. This is a musical where you can truly experience the "Miracle" that happens when the small acts of kindness from each individual connect.
Infusing the story with the core values of "Kawaii," "Friendship," and "Thoughtfulness," the Sanrio characters deliver a heartwarming "Gift" to everyone.Miracle Gift Parade boasted a highly acclaimed 10-year run at Sanrio Puroland. In 2021, the production was reimagined through a collaboration with TBS, leading to a successful staging of a new version as Sanrio Kawaii Musical “From Hello Kitty” at an external venue.
Company Profile
Founded in 1951, TBS is a leading Tokyo broadcaster uniquely positioned as the city’s only media company owning and operating a full-scale theatre. With over 70 years in television, TBS has successfully expanded into live entertainment, currently hosting the long-running hit Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Its extensive portfolio spans theatrical plays, musicals, concerts, exhibitions, and TV-linked events. Recently, TBS has strengthened its global footprint through active involvement in Broadway and West End productions. TBS continues to leverage its broadcasting heritage to create world-class live experiences and expand its international reach, especially opening a new 1,500 capacity theatre and hall in 2028.
TBS Akasaka ACT Theater
Currently running Harry Potter and the Cursed Child until December 2026
New theatre, hall, incubation center, hotel opening in 2028
Contact
For inquiries, please contact the below.
Tokyo Broadcasting System
Live Entertainment Business Division
Stage Business Department
Emi Kato kato.emi@tbs.co.jp