The illustrious Imperial Theatre in Tokyo, long cherished as a bastion of musical theatre, has officially closed its doors after 59 years of performances. The closure, effective at the end of February 2025, marks both the end of an era and the beginning of another as the theater prepares for extensive redevelopment.
On its final day, the applause for the last performance echoed through the hallowed halls, celebrating the legacy of the theatre with the concert titled "THE BEST New HISTORY COMING". Yoshio INOUE, one of Japan's celebrated musical actors, took center stage at this momentous event, gripping the hearts of the audience with both nostalgia and anticipation for what lies beyond its closure.
"This Imperial Theatre, which I love, has so many memories... is difficult to come to terms with its closure," INOUE expressed when asked about his feelings surrounding the theatre’s impending disappearance. His emotions resonate deeply with many long-standing patrons of the venue.
Opened originally as Japan's first full-scale Western-style theatre back in 1911, the Imperial Theatre has hosted over 372 productions, including famed musicals like "Les Misérables" and "Miss Saigon". Its significance to the community and performers alike is hard to overstate. "I can’t help but feel like I’m losing part of my youth," said KAYKO TANAKA, who arrived with her daughter from Chiba to witness the theatre's final moments. "I first saw 'Les Misérables' here 35 years ago, and it has always been the place to see great performances. I’m excited and nervous about the new theatre, but I’ll miss the charm of this one."
The theatre's closure has ignited mixed feelings about the past and future of musical theatre. Another long-time patron, who first visited the theatre during the 1987 Japanese premiere of "Les Misérables," reflected, "This theatre has been part of my life. It’s not just about the shows but the memories made here. The grandeur of the lobby still mesmerizes me, and the performances have left indelible impressions on my soul. I am thrilled to see the new venue but part of me will always cherish what the old theatre represented."
Audiences, actors, and crew shared fond memories of their time at the old theatre, fostering connections through shared experiences. INOUE reflected on his early days at the theatre, saying, "This was where my career formally started. It feels like my second home. I can’t help but take this time to reminisce about my beginnings and the cheerful yet anxious faces of my fellow performers as we created magic on stage together."
The final performance was not just about bidding farewell; it was a celebration of rich theatre history. INOUE sang about the theatre's quirks and characteristics, making light of common experiences such as long restroom lines, and engaging the audience with laughter and love for their beloved venue. The opening number, titled "THE 帝劇", reflected the heartfelt sentiments shared by everyone connected to this iconic institution.
The transition from the old to the new is spurred by the need for modernization and revitalization of the theatre district. It is part of broader redevelopment plans set to reshape Marunouchi. Plans for the new Imperial Theatre envision it as not only retaining its historical significance but also catering to contemporary audiences with the latest technology and comforts.
Despite the gap during the rebuilding process, optimism prevails. The theatre community is ready to embrace the future, with actors and artists eager to continue the tradition of storytelling and performance. “It’s painful to lose something so integral, but it’s also necessary for growth,” INOUE noted. His sentiments echo across the board, as all acknowledge the change is not only inevitable but potentially fruitful.
With the theatre set to reopen within the next five years, much anticipation lingers both among fans and performers alike. Many express eagerness to experience the next chapter of musical theatre at the site. "I can hardly wait for the new theatre to be built and to experience all the new magic it will bring," TANAKA added, her eyes sparkling with hope.
Today, as the doors of the cherished Imperial Theatre close, it allows its legacy to live on through the memories created over the decades. Those memories—of laughter, of tears, of performances shared—will remain firmly planted in the hearts of all who experienced its magic. And as the curtain falls on this storied venue, the theatre community looks forward to the new home where new memories will be forged, proving yet again the timeless mantra, 'the show must go on.'