Mayuka Sato and Shugo Kawakami from Russian State Theatre to Perform at Ballet Ensemble Gala 2026 Kanto Performance

Ballet Ensemble Gala 2026 Kanto Performance / Featured Dancer Introduction

Marty Inc. (Headquarters: 1F Mita Keio Residence, 2-14-4 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo) has announced that Mayuka Sato (Principal, Russian State Nizhny Novgorod Opera and Ballet Theatre) and Shugo Kawakami (Leading Soloist, Russian State Nizhny Novgorod Opera and Ballet Theatre) will perform in the upcoming "Ballet Ensemble Gala 2026 Kanto Performance."

## Mayuka Sato Profile
After graduating from the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Russia in 2013, she performed at theatres in the Mari El Republic, Astrakhan, Samara, and Saratov. In 2022, she transferred to the Nizhny Novgorod Opera and Ballet Theatre, primarily serving as a principal and soloist in classical works.
She was promoted to Principal in 2025.
In the same year, she received the Pearl Award, given annually to outstanding artists by the city of Nizhny Novgorod.
She is scheduled to transfer to the Yekaterinburg theatre in Russia from the 2026-2027 season.

## Shugo Kawakami Profile
Graduated from the Perm State Choreographic College in 2019.
Performed as a dancer with the Samara State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre from 2019 to 2021.
Performed as a dancer with the Saratov State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet from 2021 to 2022.
Active as a dancer at the A.S. Pushkin Nizhny Novgorod State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre since 2022.

## About the Russian State Nizhny Novgorod Opera and Ballet Theatre
The Nizhny Novgorod State Opera and Ballet Theatre is a prestigious institution combining tradition and artistry, based in the historic Russian city of Nizhny Novgorod.
Since its founding in the early 20th century, the theatre has inherited the authentic style of Russian ballet, staging a wide repertoire from classical masterpieces to contemporary works. It stages numerous performances year-round, earning high acclaim from audiences domestically and abroad. In recent years, it has actively expanded its global reach by participating in overseas tours and international festivals.
The company is composed of selected, highly skilled dancers, offering performances that combine advanced Russian techniques with rich expressiveness. The theatre continually evolves by tackling new productions and choreography alongside traditional classical works.

## International Recognition and Activities
The company's artistry is highly regarded through its appearances at major theatres and festivals across Russia and internationally. By actively incorporating contemporary pieces alongside traditional techniques, the ballet company is elevating its presence and gaining support from a broad audience.

## The Appeal of the Two Active Dancers
Mayuka Sato is a prominent dancer with proven ability, having been promoted to Principal at the Nizhny Novgorod State Opera and Ballet Theatre, winning the Pearl Award, and preparing to join the Yekaterinburg theatre next season.
Shugo Kawakami is a rising talent steadily building his career in Russia. After graduating from the Perm State Choreographic College, he gained experience at the Samara and Saratov state theatres before joining his current company.

## Performance Details: "Ballet Ensemble Gala 2026 Kanto Performance"
- Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026
- Venue: Curian (Shinagawa City General Citizens' Hall)
- Program:
- Part 1: Ballet Gala Concert (A feast of professional ballet dancers active domestically and abroad)
- Part 2: Highlights from "The Nutcracker" (A collaboration between professional dancers and the dancers of the future)

## Inquiries
Ballet Ensemble Gala Performance Secretariat
Website: https://www.ballet-ensemble-gala-concert.com/
Email: ballet.ensemble.dancer@gmail.com