[New National Theatre] Regional Guest Opera 2026: Biwako Hall "The Twelve Months" Pre-talk Event Announcement
The New National Theatre will hold a free pre-talk event on June 26 for the upcoming July performance of "The Twelve Months" by Biwako Hall, featuring cast members sharing insights on the production.
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The New National Theatre has announced a pre-talk event, "Enjoy the Masterpiece Opera with Talk and Song," in anticipation of the regional guest opera performance of Biwako Hall's "The Twelve Months" (scheduled for July 18-19).
"The Twelve Months" is based on the work by Russian children's literature author Samuil Marshak, translated by Yoshiko Yuasa, with script and music by Hikaru Hayashi. Originally produced in 2000 as a chamber orchestra version at the suggestion of Hiroshi Wakasugi, the first artistic director of Biwako Hall, it has been revived multiple times. Featuring beautiful melodies and accessible Japanese lyrics, it is a masterpiece opera that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.
Prior to the performances on July 18 and 19, the performers will introduce the work with talks and musical performances.
Pre-talk Event Overview
- Date: Friday, June 26, 14:00 (Doors open 13:30)
- Venue: New National Theatre, Opera Palace Foyer
- Fee: Free (Open to ages 6 and up). No prior application required; please come directly to the venue on the day.
- Cast: Tetsuro Ban (Conductor), Keiichi Nakamura (Director), Rikuya Terashima (Piano)
- Featured Singers: Jin Fukunishi (April/Crow/Guard Captain), Mizuki Takada (July/Daughter/Courtier), Yuka Yamauchi (October/Queen), Haruto Sanuki (December/Doctor/Elder)
- Inquiries: Biwako Hall Business Division: 077-523-7150 (10:00-17:00, closed on Tuesdays)
*Please note that event content and performers may change due to unavoidable circumstances.
"The Twelve Months" is based on the work by Russian children's literature author Samuil Marshak, translated by Yoshiko Yuasa, with script and music by Hikaru Hayashi. Originally produced in 2000 as a chamber orchestra version at the suggestion of Hiroshi Wakasugi, the first artistic director of Biwako Hall, it has been revived multiple times. Featuring beautiful melodies and accessible Japanese lyrics, it is a masterpiece opera that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.
Prior to the performances on July 18 and 19, the performers will introduce the work with talks and musical performances.
Pre-talk Event Overview
- Date: Friday, June 26, 14:00 (Doors open 13:30)
- Venue: New National Theatre, Opera Palace Foyer
- Fee: Free (Open to ages 6 and up). No prior application required; please come directly to the venue on the day.
- Cast: Tetsuro Ban (Conductor), Keiichi Nakamura (Director), Rikuya Terashima (Piano)
- Featured Singers: Jin Fukunishi (April/Crow/Guard Captain), Mizuki Takada (July/Daughter/Courtier), Yuka Yamauchi (October/Queen), Haruto Sanuki (December/Doctor/Elder)
- Inquiries: Biwako Hall Business Division: 077-523-7150 (10:00-17:00, closed on Tuesdays)
*Please note that event content and performers may change due to unavoidable circumstances.
FAQ
Is the "The Twelve Months" pre-talk event open to everyone?
It is open to ages 6 and up. It is a free event with no reservation required, so feel free to attend.
What is the content of the pre-talk?
The conductor, director, and singers will talk about the production and perform highlights to explain the background and appeal of the opera in an accessible way.
Where can I buy tickets for the performance?
Please check the official website of the New National Theatre, Tokyo (https://www.nntt.jac.go.jp/opera/thetwelvemonths/) for details and purchase information.