What this is
Five Tony Awards were won by 'NINE' during its original Broadway run, and now this celebrated musical gets the full Takarazuka Revue treatment — performed by the legendary all-female Moon Troupe and broadcast live to cinemas across Japan. Based on Fellini's semi-autobiographical film '8½', the show follows a director's creative and romantic crisis, reimagined through Takarazuka's signature blend of glamour, precision, and theatrical spectacle. Watching Takarazuka via live cinema broadcast is a genuinely accessible way to experience a troupe that regularly sells out its home theatre in Takarazuka City.
Who should go
Musical theatre fans, Takarazuka followers, and anyone curious about Japan's most distinctive theatrical institution. Cinema broadcast format makes this a good entry point for first-timers who haven't managed to secure tickets to the main venue.
Good to know
Tickets for Takarazuka live cinema broadcasts are typically sold through cinema chain websites (Toho Cinemas, Aeon Cinema, United Cinemas) and sometimes via eplus.jp — foreign credit cards are generally accepted on these platforms. Seating is assigned and the experience is fully seated, similar to a standard cinema screening. The broadcast will be in Japanese without English subtitles, so some familiarity with the story of 'NINE' or Fellini's '8½' beforehand is worthwhile. Applause from the live audience at Tokyu Theatre Orb is usually audible, which adds to the atmosphere. Confirm your specific cinema's policies on food and drink, as these vary by chain.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.