There will be many people who want to see a musical in English. Few theaters are staging a musical in English, but it is only partially. This article introduces three ways to enjoy musicals in Tokyo.
How to Enjoy English Musicals
See Broadway Production Shows at Tokyu Theatre Orb
Tokyu Theater Orb is a large musical theater located in Shibuya Hikarie. Because it was designed for Broadway performances, it has had many performances on tour in Japan. Check the performance schedule and make sure not to miss the show.
Performance History (Come on tour to Japan)
・2023: The Phantom of the Opera (Ken Hill’s Version)
・2019: King and I, Chicago
・2018: Evita, Rent, A Chorus Line, The Phantom of the Opera (Ken Hill’s Version)
・2017: West Side Story, Singin’ in the Rain, Sister Act, Finding Neverland, Hedwig and the Angry Inch
・2016: Dream Girls, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Kinky Boots
・2015: Jersey Boys, Sister Act, Pippin, Chicago
・2014: Singin’ in the Rain
・2013: Hair, Dream Girls
・2012: West Side Story
Use “Subtitle Glasses” for Japanese-Language Broadway Shows of Shiki Theater Company
Shiki Theater Company lends out “Subtitle Glasses” for hearing-impaired and foreign language speakers at some of its performances. Reservations are required for use.
After purchasing a ticket, you can use the application form.
(Application deadline is seven days before the performance/first come, first served)
Target users
People with hearing impairments/people coming from overseas
*For ages seven and older
Target shows
“The Lion King” Ariake Shiki Theatre (Tokyo)
Language
English/Korean/Chinese (Traditional/Simplified)/Japanese
*Select your preferred language when making a reservation.
*Reservation is required. The number of subtitle glasses available for rent is limited.
Rental fee
1,000 yen (tax included/payable in cash on the day/deposit of 3,000 yen required)
*Those with hearing impairments may use the facility free of charge by presenting their disability certificate (deposit required).
*In the unlikely event that the “subtitle glass” is damaged, a damage charge of 3,000 yen will be charged.
Tokyo International Players (TIP): English-language Musicals by English Speakers
Tokyo International Players (TIP) was founded in 1896. It is a theater organization comprising Tokyo’s expatriate community, providing quality English-language entertainment to international audiences. 100% volunteer-run, TIP is always looking for actors, directors, backstage staff, and those who can help with fundraising and promotional activities. Although it is a for-profit organization, the quality of its productions is by no means amateur. Over its long history, many of its active members have appeared in professional theaters in Japan and abroad.
Straight Play in English: Sheep Dog Theatre
It is not a musical, but Sheepdog Theatre is staging a drama in English. Check this out in addition!
Sheepdog Theatre was founded to bring off-Broadway style English-speaking theater to Tokyo audiences. The theater was founded by Australian director Michael Walker. Future productions will be announced in due course.
Performance History
・February, 2024: William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”, at Theatre BONBON in Nakano, Tokyo
・July, 2023: Samuel D. Hunter’s “beautiful and poignant, “The Whale.”
・Nobember, 2019: Ingmar Bergman’s “Through A Glass Darkly”, at Theatre Shine in Asagaya, Tokyo
