The musical 'The Guy Who Didn't Like Musicals' (original title: The Guy Who Didn't Like Musicals) has opened at the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre, Theatre West.

This work was first performed in 2018 by the Los Angeles-based StarKid Productions and is inspired by the 1956 horror film 'Invasion of the Body Snatchers.' It is an unusual 'B-movie horror musical' where, around the protagonist who dislikes musicals, people suddenly start singing and dancing, causing a bizarre phenomenon.

This production is the second part of Theater Company TipTap's 20th-anniversary performances. Ichiho Ueda is in charge of translation, lyric adaptation, and direction, with Tokifumi Ozawa serving as music director.

The cast features Koki Mizuta in the lead role, Tomona Yabiku as the heroine, and a豪華 (gōka - luxurious) lineup including Marika Dando, Ryosuke Kobayashi, Mirei, Masaki Kamata, Orenogravity, and Shinichiro Hara, delivering a surprisingly, utterly ridiculous 'B-movie horror musical.'

Within the play, lines that musical fans will chuckle at, and gestures and movements that should be cool are deliberately transformed into comical expressions and exaggerated actions reminiscent of a B-movie comedy. The gap created by the uniquely talented cast performing these with full effort and utmost seriousness is what makes this work supremely charming.

Furthermore, the essence of nostalgic B-movie horror, reminiscent of old sci-fi films, and the comedy elements sprinkled throughout give the work a unique depth. While exuding this B-movie feel, the live sound and singing that envelop the theater to the accompaniment of wonderful songs are extremely high quality. This luxurious setup will undoubtedly draw the audience into the world of the work without a moment's boredom until the very end.

We hope you will experience this ultimate entertainment, disguised as a cheap and lovable B-movie horror, at the theater.

Upon opening, comments have arrived from Ichiho Ueda, who handles translation, lyric adaptation, and direction, lead actor Koki Mizuta, and Tomona Yabiku!

Ichiho Ueda's Comment

The long-awaited Japanese premiere is finally here. I am savoring the joy of being able to perform this work, which has fans worldwide, in Japan first with my theater company. An amazing cast has gathered! I am truly happy to be able to deliver to the audience everyone who is challenging, fighting, and competing with all their might in this wonderfully ridiculous, silly work. It's a show that both musical lovers and musical haters can enjoy! Please look forward to it.

Koki Mizuta's Comment

'The Guy Who Didn't Like Musicals' has finally opened.

Isn't it okay to have various works, various expressions, and various musicals!? This is the first time I've encountered a work where the impression is so unpredictable. While following the original version, we have carefully crafted the Japanese version through rehearsals. Please don't think too deeply, just feel it! This B-movie horror comedy! Haha.

Tomona Yabiku's Comment

After a very fun and fulfilling rehearsal period, I am very excited to see how this work will be received by everyone! Comedy is difficult. It's a completely new world with a different kind of energy, and I'm being challenged in ways I never have before. However, I am truly grateful for the warm environment created by everyone, starting with Ichiho-san, the cast, and the entire company, who accepted everything. Now, it's just about enjoying it!!! I would be happy if everyone could join us in enjoying an extremely ridiculous time without thinking about anything! We look forward to seeing you at the theater!!!

<Performance Overview>

Title: Theater Company TipTap 20th Anniversary Production Part 2 'The Guy Who Didn't Like Musicals'

Original Title: The Guy Who Didn't Like Musicals

Music & Lyrics: Jeff Blim

Book: Nick & Matt Lang

Translation, Lyric Adaptation, Direction: Ichiho Ueda

Music Director: Tokifumi Ozawa

Cast: Koki Mizuta, Tomona Yabiku

Marika Dando, Ryosuke Kobayashi, Mirei, Masaki Kamata, Orenogravity, Shinichiro Hara

Dates & Venue: July 2, 2026 (Thu) - July 5, 2026 (Sun) Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre, Theatre West

Ticket Price: ¥11,000 (All seats reserved, tax included)

Same-day tickets available (reception opens 30 minutes before curtain)

Official Website: https://tiptap.jp

Official X: @gekidan_TipTap

Organizer: Cue Company

Planning & Production: TipTap

Publicity: Kyodo Media's

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: 公演
  • Organizations: StarKid Productions / Cue Company / TipTap