Today : Apr 19, 2025
Arts & Culture
13 April 2025

Elisabeth Musical Returns For 25th Anniversary Performance

The beloved musical will feature a W cast of leading actresses and a talented creative team.

The renowned musical Elisabeth is set to captivate audiences once again, with performances scheduled from October to November 2025 at the Tokyu Theatre Orb in Tokyo. Following this, the production will travel to Hokkaido, Osaka, and Fukuoka from December 2025 to January 2026. This year marks a significant milestone as it celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Toho version's premiere, which first graced the stage in 2000.

In this upcoming production, the iconic role of Elisabeth will be portrayed by two leading actresses, Nozomi Futo and Asumi Rio, who will share the stage in a W cast. Both actresses have made their mark in the world of musical theatre, with Futo previously serving as a top star of the Takarazuka Revue and continuing to shine in various productions after her retirement. Asumi, also a former top star, has established herself as a prominent figure in both theatre and television, known for her elegance and depth in performance.

The role of To-to, the enigmatic figure representing death, will be played by three talented actors: Yu Shirota will perform in all locations, while Yoshio Inoue will take on the role during the Tokyo performances, and Kazuki Yamasaki will appear in the Hokkaido, Osaka, and Fukuoka shows. This will be the first time in about three years that the character of To-to is brought to life on stage, raising anticipation for how each actor will interpret this complex role.

The creative team behind this production is nothing short of extraordinary. Michael Kunze, who is responsible for the script and lyrics, collaborates with composer Sylvester Levay, known for his musical arrangements, and director Koike Shuuichirou, who also handles the translation. Together, they are set to deliver a fresh and exciting rendition of Elisabeth.

The story of Elisabeth revolves around the tragic life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known for her beauty and spirit. It explores her complex relationship with To-to, who has pursued her love since her youth. This forbidden love ultimately leads to her fate being intertwined with death, as the empire around her crumbles. The narrative weaves themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of freedom, making it a timeless tale that resonates with audiences.

As the musical prepares to hit the stage, excitement is building among fans and newcomers alike. The 25th anniversary marks not only a celebration of the show's legacy but also an opportunity for a new generation to experience its powerful storytelling and stunning musicality.

Performances in Tokyo are set to take place at the Tokyu Theatre Orb, while the Hokkaido show will be held at the Sapporo Cultural Arts Theatre hitaru. The Osaka performances will take place at the Umeda Arts Theatre Main Hall, and the final stop will be at Hakataza in Fukuoka.

With its rich history and remarkable cast, the upcoming production of Elisabeth promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience. Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars and visit the official website for more details on ticket sales and performance dates.