What this is
Kiyoshi Maekawa Family Theater is a theatrical event staged at the historic Meiji-za in Tokyo, drawing on the creative legacy of playwright Tomohiro Maekawa and the Ikiume Theatre Company, whose work gained international recognition through Kiyoshi Kurosawa's 2017 Cannes-selected film adaptation 'Before We Vanish.' Maekawa's writing is known for blending everyday domestic settings with unsettling science fiction and philosophical themes, making his stage work distinctive within contemporary Japanese theatre. The Meiji-za, one of Tokyo's oldest and most storied kabuki and theatrical venues, provides a grand and atmospheric setting for this kind of serious yet accessible dramatic work. This event represents an opportunity to experience Japanese contemporary theatre rooted in a celebrated literary and cinematic tradition.
Who should go
This event is ideal for theatre enthusiasts, fans of Japanese contemporary drama, and anyone curious about the stage origins of the acclaimed film 'Before We Vanish.' Cinephiles who discovered Kiyoshi Kurosawa's or Tomohiro Maekawa's work through the Cannes circuit will find particular resonance here. The Meiji-za's elegant atmosphere suits adult audiences looking for a refined cultural evening in Tokyo. Note that performances will almost certainly be conducted entirely in Japanese, so non-Japanese speakers should be prepared for a language barrier.
Good to know
Tickets for Meiji-za productions are typically sold through the venue's official website, eplus.jp, or pia.jp β foreign credit cards are generally accepted on eplus and pia, though a Japanese address may be requested for postal delivery; convenience store pickup at Lawson or FamilyMart is the most practical option for visitors. Meiji-za is a traditional mid-size theatre seating approximately 1,000 guests in assigned seats across a tiered auditorium, offering good sightlines from most positions. The venue has a formal atmosphere befitting its heritage, so smart-casual attire is appropriate. Arrive at least 20β30 minutes before curtain as late entry is typically not permitted once the performance begins. The box office and lobby area accept both cash and card, and a programme booklet (in Japanese) is usually available for purchase.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change β verify with the official source before attending.