“Kabuki” returns to London after 17 years: classic triptych at Sadler’s Wells with the international debuts of two young stars

Japan’s leading entertainment company Shochiku and the international arts agency Askonas Holt have announced “KABUKI”, a triptych of three classic kabuki pieces to be performed at Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London on January 30 and 31, 2027. It is the return of one of Japan’s most revered art forms to London after a 17-year absence, and comes amid growing interest in kabuki following the international success of the art film “Kokuho”.

The production marks the international stage debuts of Ichikawa Somegorō VIII and Onoe Tatsunosuke III, two of the most anticipated young stars of kabuki’s new generation. Both come from long lines of renowned performers: Somegorō first appeared on stage at age 2, Tatsunosuke at age 3. Produced by Shochiku, the show is the 11th kabuki production in London and the 8th at Sadler’s Wells Theatre.

Kabuki dates from the early 17th century and is a traditional Japanese theatrical form performed entirely by men, combining music, dance and acting (“ka” — song; “bu” — dance; “ki” — acting skill). In 2005 UNESCO proclaimed it a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The triptych consists of three dance pieces: “Fuji Musume” (The Wisteria Maiden), performed by Onoe Tatsunosuke; “Yuki no Shakkyō” (The Stone Bridge Bound by Snow — a Lion Dance), performed by Ichikawa Somegorō; and “Meoto Dōjōji” (A Man and a Woman at Dōjōji Temple), performed by both together.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to convey the power of kabuki to people outside the country, together with Tatsunosuke, an actor of my generation,” said Ichikawa Somegorō VIII. “Kabuki was born over 400 years ago and has continued to this day, absorbing the culture, sensibility and values of the people of each era. It is like a mirror reflecting what the Japanese have gathered over a long period.”

Onoe Tatsunosuke III added that “the appeal of the art of kabuki lies in the atmosphere and enthusiasm that can only be experienced live,” and that he wants the growing interest “not to be just a passing fad, but something that can be passed on to the next generation.” Donagh Collins, CEO of Askonas Holt, said London’s past audiences “responded warmly to the history, beauty and grandeur of kabuki” and that this visit is “particularly attractive, as it brings two of the best young actors of our days.”

Tickets have gone on sale from today (September 21, 2026), with prices starting at £15. Performances are on January 30 (19:30) and January 31 (14:00), 2027.

Source: BroadwayWorld.