On May 21, 2025, at 10 PM, the WOWOW program "Live Broadcast! Yoshio Inoue Musical Hour 'Yoshio's Muse'" will feature a live presentation of the Broadway musical "Kinky Boots." This special event will showcase performances by a talented cast including Kai Tochi, Motohiro Ota, Tsubasa Akari, and Yuto Matsushita, who will portray the lead roles of Charlie Price and Lola, respectively. The broadcast is timed perfectly between the conclusion of the Tokyo performances and the commencement of the Osaka shows, making it a unique opportunity for fans to gain insights and hear behind-the-scenes stories about the production.
"Kinky Boots" is a musical adaptation of the acclaimed 2005 film, with a script by Harvey Fierstein, music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper, and direction by Jerry Mitchell. The story follows Charlie Price, who inherits a struggling shoe factory and meets Lola, a drag queen who inspires him to produce a line of boots for the drag community. This heartwarming tale tackles themes of acceptance, diversity, and the power of friendship.
Since its debut in Japan in 2016, "Kinky Boots" has enjoyed multiple runs, including productions in 2019 and 2022. The upcoming 2025 performances will introduce a largely new main cast, with Tochi and Ota sharing the role of Charlie and Akari and Matsushita taking turns as Lola. The anticipation surrounding this new cast is palpable, especially as the audience will witness their interpretations of these beloved characters.
During the live broadcast, viewers can expect not only discussions about the production but also live musical performances from "Kinky Boots." This unique format allows fans to engage with the show in real-time, enhancing the overall experience. Tsubasa Akari, who is making her third appearance on "Yoshio's Muse," expressed her excitement about returning to the studio, stating, "I am really happy to be back and hope to talk a lot about 'Kinky Boots.'" Her enthusiasm reflects the energy and passion that the cast brings to this production.
In a recent VTR comment on "Yoshio's Muse" #21, Kai Tochi expressed his eagerness for the upcoming show, saying, "I am really happy to be able to appear on 'Yoshio's Muse' again! I look forward to discussing musicals with Yoshio!" This sentiment of camaraderie among the cast members is a hallmark of the show's spirit.
Motohiro Ota and Yuto Matsushita will also be making their first appearances on the program. Ota shared his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing the emotional depth of the songs from "Kinky Boots," stating, "The songs we will perform are so powerful that I cannot wait to share them with everyone." This anticipation is shared by Matsushita, who noted, "I’m looking forward to having fun and making the show exciting as part of the 'Kinky Boots' team!"
The musical has been celebrated for its outstanding contributions to theater, receiving 13 Tony Award nominations in 2013 and winning six, including Best Musical and Best Original Score. This recognition underscores the impact and relevance of the story it tells, resonating with audiences across generations.
The performances of "Kinky Boots" are set to take place at the Tokyu Theatre Orb in Tokyo from April 27 to May 18, 2025, followed by shows at the Orix Theater in Osaka from May 26 to June 8, 2025. With the production's engaging narrative and vibrant score, it promises to be a memorable experience for theatergoers.
In addition to the musical highlights, the live broadcast will feature interactions with the audience, including the tradition of Yoshio Inoue handing out roses to selected viewers. This interactive element has become a beloved part of the show, fostering a sense of community among fans and participants alike.
The excitement surrounding "Yoshio's Muse" and its upcoming episode is palpable, as it not only showcases the talents of its guests but also celebrates the art of musical theater. As the cast members prepare for their performances, they are also keen to share their personal experiences and stories related to the production, further enriching the viewing experience.
In a world where musical theater continues to evolve, productions like "Kinky Boots" remind audiences of the timeless power of storytelling through song and dance. The upcoming live broadcast is not just a performance; it is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the joy of coming together to appreciate the arts.
