[From Kawaguchi, Shakespeare to the World.] Oizumi Factory to Headline the World's Largest Shakespeare Festival; Joint Press Conference and Public Rehearsal for Japanese Theatre Company Kakushinhan's Triumphant Return.
The stage play 'Shin Titus,' which premiered at Oizumi Factory, has been officially invited to an international theatre festival in Romania.
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Oizumi Factory Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture, Representative Director: Kantaro Oizumi, hereinafter Oizumi Factory) announces that the stage play 'Shin Titus' by Theatre Company Kakushinhan (hereinafter Kakushinhan), which premiered in 2023 at the "OKS CAMPUS" within its headquarters, has been officially invited as the opening act for the "Craiova International Shakespeare Festival 2026," the world's largest Shakespeare-focused international theatre festival held in Romania. In response, a press conference will be held with Kakushinhan on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. A public rehearsal will also be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
From Kawaguchi, Shakespeare to the World. Background to the Press Conference and Public Rehearsal with Kakushinhan
'Shin Titus' is a reinterpretation of Shakespeare's 'Titus Andronicus,' directed by Ryunosuke Kimura. The play, themed around a prayer for contemporary society plagued by war and division, was reconstructed by incorporating the spirituality of Japan's indigenous Noh theatre. It premiered in 2023 in "WAREHOUSE," a community space formerly used as a factory, located within Oizumi Factory's headquarters.
This production, realized despite overcoming performance cancellations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, garnered attention not only for the brilliance of the work itself but also as an endeavor to expand the possibilities of "space." The immersive direction, utilizing the non-traditional space of a "warehouse," received high acclaim.
Now, this production has been selected as the opening work for the 2026 edition of the "Craiova International Shakespeare Festival 2026," an international theatre festival with participation from over 40 countries. This festival has featured world-renowned directors such as Peter Brook, Robert Lepage, Robert Wilson, and Yukio Ninagawa. The selection of a Japanese work to open this prestigious festival is of utmost significance.
FAQ
What is 'Shin Titus'?
'Shin Titus' is a reinterpretation of Shakespeare's 'Titus Andronicus,' directed by Ryunosuke Kimura. It incorporates the spirituality of Japanese Noh theatre and explores themes relevant to contemporary society, such as war and division.
What is the Craiova International Shakespeare Festival?
The Craiova International Shakespeare Festival is the world's largest festival dedicated to Shakespeare, held in Romania, attracting participants from over 40 countries and featuring renowned international directors.
What is the significance of 'Shin Titus' being selected as the opening act?
It is highly significant as it marks the first time a Japanese production will open this prestigious festival, which has previously featured globally acclaimed directors. It represents a major achievement for Japanese theatre on the international stage.
Where did 'Shin Titus' premiere?
'Shin Titus' premiered in 2023 at 'WAREHOUSE,' a community space within Oizumi Factory's headquarters in Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture, which was formerly used as a factory.
What are the upcoming events related to this announcement?
Oizumi Factory and Theatre Company Kakushinhan will hold a press conference on April 15, 2026, and a public rehearsal on May 9, 2026, in anticipation of the festival performance.