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[title]Shizuoka Performing Arts Center (SPAC) presents an eclectic lineup for its Autumn 2024 to Spring 2025 season, offering a captivating blend of Japanese and international narratives. This season promises to transport audiences to various continents and cultures through the power of theatrical storytelling. SPAC is renowned not only in Japan, but also highly praised by audiences around the world including cities like Paris and New York.
The White Hare of Inaba-Navajo
When: October 19, 20, 27; November 3, 4, 9
Where: Shizuoka Arts Theatre
The intriguing title suggests a fascinating fusion of Japanese folklore and Native American culture. ‘The White Hare of Inaba’ is a well-known Japanese myth, while the addition of ‘Navajo’ hints at an innovative cultural mash-up.
Unveiled to the public as part of the Musée du quai Branly's 10th anniversary celebrations in June 2016, 'The White Hare of Inaba-Navajo' is based on a hypothesis propagated by the late anthropologist and philosopher Claude Lévi-Strauss and offers a unique perspective on shared themes in global mythologies. It also explores the concepts of trickery, redemption as well as the relationship between humans and nature.
Don't miss this opportunity to experience world-class theatre that bridges cultures and at the same time challenges our existing perspectives and prejudices. Tickets are now available online and same-day tickets will be sold at the venue from one hour before the start of the show.
Show starts at 2pm. Tickets ¥4,200 (English subtitles are available on tablets; booking is required when purchasing the ticket)
Supported by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan through the Japan Arts Council, Japan Foundation for Regional Art-Activities.
The Elephant
When: December 7, 8, 14, 15
Where: Shizuoka Arts Theatre
While the gruelling memory of war is slowly fading from Japanese society, the voices of hibakusha, victims of the atomic bomb, should not be forgotten. ‘The Elephant’ encapsulates the alienation and discrimination atomic bomb survivors faced through the lens of a ‘sick man’, his nephew and the nurse. This work, which was born from a collaboration between Suzuki Tadashi, the first general artistic director of the Shizuoka Performing Arts Center, and legendary playwright Betsuyaku Minoru, is given a new direction this year by Emma, a promising up-and-coming theatre director in the field.
Show starts at 6.30pm on December 7 and 2pm for subsequent dates. English subtitles are available. Tickets go on sale starting October 13. Note that dates and productions are subject to change, be sure to check the SPAC website for the latest information.
The Menam River Japanese
When: January 18, 19; February 15, 16; March 1, 2 2025
Where: Shizuoka Arts Theatre
Dive into the heart of Southeast Asia with this captivating production. Titled after the Bangkok river Chao Phraya’s former name, ‘The Menam River Japanese’ explores the turbulent experiences of a 17th-century Japanese expatriate Nagamasa Yamada, an adventurer who lived in Thailand’s Ayutthaya Kingdom during times when cross-cultural interactions between the two nations were scarce. Expect a nuanced exploration of cultural identity, displacement, and the enduring connections between Japan and Thailand.
Show starts at 2pm. English subtitles are available. Tickets go on sale starting November 3.
For more information about Shizuoka Performing Arts Center's Autumn 2024-Spring 2025 season, check the website.