After nearly 30 years of waiting, Tokyo Sanjigen, led by renowned playwright Koki Mitani, is set to debut its new play titled Mongol Came. The production aims to shed light on the events surrounding the Mongol invasion of Tsushima, set against the backdrop of 13th-century Japan.
The play will run from February 9 to March 2, 2023, at the PARCO Theater located in Shibuya, Tokyo, with subsequent performances scheduled across various regions including Okayama, Kyoto, Nagano, Miyagi, Hokkaido, Osaka, Aichi, Fukuoka, and Okinawa.
Mitani, who began his career during the small theater boom of the 1980s, has crafted this narrative focusing on the life of ordinary fishermen, depicting them as largely unaware of the impending doom looming from the Mongol fleet. "Now, it might feel like aliens are attacking," Mitani remarked, metaphorically comparing the invasion to contemporary examples of unforeseen crises.
This revival brings together notable cast members such as Kenji Anan, Yoshiyoshi Arakawa, and Masahiko Nishimura, all of whom have strong ties with Mitani. Their roles have been especially crafted to reflect the complex dynamics of aging, with Mitani humorously noting, "We’ve all aged, and there’s no need for makeup to hide it. Now we aim to tell the stories only we can tell at this age."
The playwright shared insight about his roots during interviews, mentioning his maternal grandmother’s lineage connected to Tsushima. "I was drawn to write about the drama of people going about their daily lives just before they may die," he expressed. Mitani's family ties to the island add layers of depth to the storytelling, inviting audiences to rethink the often-overlooked perspectives of common people during historical upheavals.
Originally formed when Mitani was still attending university, Tokyo Sanjigen was known for its ability to engage audiences of all ages with productions like 12 Angry Japanese Men and Radio Time. The group declared a hiatus after their last performance of Trap, announcing they would enter what Mitani humorously referred to as a "30-year charging period."
Reflecting on the long hiatus, Mitani indicated, "I have not said I want to revive the group, but if the actors express interest, I will help." This sentiment showcases Mitani's flexible approach toward the group’s future.
The play's premise highlights the tension and urgency of historical events, examining how even ordinary citizens could find themselves at the center of monumental moments. Mitani's vision also echoes sentiments recently expressed during his discussions about his work on the NHK Taiga drama Kamakura-dono no 13-nin, where he explored how individuals are often caught up by forces beyond their control.
Tokyo Sanjigen’s Mongol Came promises to be more than just recounting the past; it invites the audience to reflect on the cyclical nature of history, identity, and human resilience. Every performance resonates with the poignant awareness of what it means to face crises, akin to how the fishermen may have felt as the Mongol ships approached: oblivious yet imminently threatened.
Performances across the country will not only mark the return of the beloved theater group but also give fans the chance to witness how Mitani’s reflective approach brings fresh narratives to classic historical conflicts. The theater community holds its breath as they await this unique offering, which promises to blend humor, pathos, and historical insight all at once.
For those interested, tickets and performance details are currently available through the theater's official website. Excitement is already building, with many eager to see what Tokyo Sanjigen has crafted after their long pause from the stage. Only time will tell how this production will resonate with audiences both young and old, as they come together to witness the stories of those who lived on the brink of history.