From Shizuoka to the World: Next-Generation Star Project 'DREAM GATE' to Debut National-Scale Stage at Sumpu Castle Park

The Future Town Planning Organization (Secretariat: COMMON Co., Ltd., Headquarters: Kyoto City, CEO: Yuki Masuda) has announced that the next-generation star development project 'DREAM GATE' will perform a dance program at the 'Nippon no Sozai Koshien (ichi) Shizuoka Tournament,' to be held on May 30th (Sat) and 31st (Sun), 2026, at Sumpu Castle Park in Shizuoka City. The global boy group 'EPITHYMiA,' which successfully completed North American and European tours within just one year of formation, will join young local dancers to deliver a passionate performance connecting Shizuoka to the world.

### A Stage Where 'True Value of Materials' and 'Expression of Soul' Resonate

'Nippon no Sozai Koshien (ichi)' is a project that supports Japan's primary industries and visualizes the inherent value of materials. The spirit of ichi, which questions the power of materials through ultimate minimalism—using only salt as seasoning—resonates deeply with the spirit of dancers who challenge the world with their own bodies and carve the cry of their souls into their steps.

The 'DREAM GATE' dance program at the Sumpu Castle Park special stage is more than just entertainment. it is a place for 'education' and 'challenge' for young people aiming for the world from regional areas, carrying a strong social message that a single step toward an uncertain future can create a regional miracle.

### Guest: The Independent Global Group 'EPITHYMiA'

A highlight of the event is the appearance of EPITHYMiA, a global boy group with enthusiastic followers worldwide through social media platforms like TikTok.

* **Global Achievements:** Within one year of formation, they have successfully toured North America, Europe, Mexico, and other countries, gathering international support.
* **Unique Style:** Born from a background as 'K-POP TRAINEES IN JAPAN,' they maintain an independent style that does not fit into specific categories.

The reason why they, who connect directly with the world via SNS, are appearing at a regional primary industry event is their identity as people who have 'opened up the world with their own feet.' This presence is believed to be the greatest inspiration for local youth.

### Production: Tsugu's Vision of 'One Step Changes the World'

The stage is produced by Tsugu, a choreographer and content producer with a 30-year career who has produced numerous artists domestically and internationally.

**Tsugu's Philosophy:**
"Dance is not a tool for comparison or a weapon to hurt others. It is an expression of the soul."

Tsugu suggests that the 'courage of one step' taken by young people facing an uncertain future will be the beginning of a miracle for the region. On this stage, the youth embodying this spirit will perform, passing the baton from Shizuoka to the nation and the future.

### Participating Groups Challenging the World from Local Regions

Diverse dance teams, mainly active in Shizuoka Prefecture, will gather to perform over two days.

**May 30 (Sat) Performers:**
DSM, ⭐STL⭐, PIN♢S, Puchi-zaru, BEAMS, FΛVELIT, Shizuoka Cheerleading Team, FORTIS, Mabataki Dance Studio, TR1NITY, Dance Circle MyStar Hamakita, Dance Studio SAI, KIRARI KIDS Number, studio GLOW, EPITHYMiA

**May 31 (Sun) Performers:**
Dance School Me., studio R＋B, Dance school JacK, Studio Sho, THELAB Shizuoka / THELAB Kakegawa, Kishido (Yosakoi), Dance Studio Cheese!!, WASABI JAPAN, studio.H, LUMINA, ABLAZE bro., LELO, Jodai Matsurigumi, Lino Dance school, Dance Studio Rapport, Osada Mei, DanceStudio AINA, team.N, studio GLOW, Mabataki Dance Studio, Dance Circle MyStar Hamakita E, EPITHYMiA (Order subject to change. Performers may vary.)

### Event Overview

* **Event Name:** Nippon no Sozai Koshien (ichi) Shizuoka Tournament Stage Program 'DREAM GATE'
* **Date:** May 30 (Sat) and 31 (Sun), 2026
* **Venue:** Sumpu Castle Park Special Stage (1-1 Sumpujo-koen, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture)