‘Princess Mononoke’ As It’s Never Been Seen Before
Studio Ghibli’s beloved animated film Princess Mononoke will be adapted for the kabuki stage in Tokyo’s Shinbashi Enbujo theater starting on July 3.
The production will be staged by Shochiku Kabuki, which, under the influence of actor Ennosuke Ichikawa III, pioneered the concept of “Super Kabuki.” Super Kabuki is a dynamic branch of kabuki theater that merges traditional techniques with contemporary styles and narratives.
Keeping with kabuki’s tradition of an all-male cast, Kazutaro Nakamura will take on the role of San. He will be joined by Tokizo Nakamura, who will portray the antagonistic Lady Eboshi, and Danko Ichikawa, who will take on the dual roles of the heroic Ashitaka and the Forest Spirit. Ichikawa is the grandson of the Super Kabuki founder.
The show will run from July 3 to August 23, with performances at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Some dates will feature only one performance, so please check the theater website for the full schedule. Tickets for July performances are already available, while tickets for August performances will go on sale on June 25.
Tickets start at ¥3,000 for B-tier seats on the third floor, and go up to ¥18,000 for premium box seats.
Audience members aged 30 and under can purchase all ticket types on the day of the performance for half price, subject to availability. Day-of ticket sales start at 10 a.m. at the Shinbashi Enbujo theater box office, and up to one ticket per eligible customer can be purchased at the discounted rate. Guests will be required to fill out a special purchase form and present original photo ID that verifies their age.
For all other tickets, guests can make reservations directly through Shochiku by phone or via its ticketing website. Tickets are also available through Lawson Ticket and Ticket Pia. Certain packages, including Ticket Pia’s exclusive offerings, come with additional perks such as a first-class bento box to enjoy during the performance.
