The Japan Society Review

A bold reimagining of Butoh dance for today by New York-based butoh dancer Vangeline. Review by Alice Baldock

The celebratory tour by the "Queen of anime" LiSA and her band, the nYu-MeNs. Review by Maxine Stacey

By Noda Hideki Noda Map’s -320°F is a fast-paced, raucous rollercoaster of wild characters, quick wit, and comedy, charging forward through challenging themes in a colourful explosion of creativity. Review by Rachel Pratt

YAMATO The Drummers of Japan exhibited their London show showcasing their performers’ artistry and creative nous with the taiko. Review by Shaun English

Japan’s leading electronic composer and visual artist Ikeda Ryoji present his most recent work Opuses 15-20 at the Barbican in London showing his unique musicality. Review by Shaun English

This review looks back at Ado’s concert at The O2 in London in 2025, reflecting on one of the most anticipated J‑pop live events of the year.

From Kushida Yoshimitsu and Dance Company Lasta Naraku is a visceral journey into a man’s psyche, where desire, ego, and obsession clash with electrifying intensity. Review by Alice Baldock

Choreographed by Kujirai Kentaro Snowstorms, isolation, and the icy bite of winter permeate the world of U-BU-SU-NA, a very old word meaning ‘the mystical divine power that protects the land and those who live there’, and the title of this piece presented by butoh dancer and choreographer Kujirai Kentaro. Review by Alice Baldock

Written and directed by Kato Takuya A sci-fi work set in near-future Japan exploring the ethics and gender politics of human colonisation in space. Review by Michael Tsang

Adapted by John Caird Studio Ghibli’s Oscar-winning Spirited Away is imagined for the stage by Olivier and Tony award-winning director of Les Misérables, John Caird. Review by Michael Tsang