Excitement is climbing as Ae! group’s Yoshinori Masakado takes the lead in PARCO Produce 2024’s stage adaptation of “Touching the Void ～虚空に触れて～” from October 8th! This marks Yoshinori’s first stage lead in two years and his debut collaboration with an international director.
“Touching the Void” is a harrowing account by mountaineer Joe Simpson, who documented his near-fatal climb of Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes in 1985. The book, which became a bestseller and was adapted into a BAFTA-winning film in 2003, details the incredible survival story after a disastrous accident.
Scottish playwright and director David Greig adapted this gripping narrative for the stage in 2018. Originally performed at the Bristol Old Vic under the direction of then-artistic director Tom Morris, the play received rave reviews and sold-out performances, despite its minimalist set. Audiences found themselves transported to the treacherous, snow-covered peaks, experiencing the climbers’ agony and resilience as if they were on the mountain themselves.
Now, Japanese audiences will get their first taste of this acclaimed production, with Tom himself directing the Japanese cast. The stark and simple set design will challenge actors to convey the intense psychological and physical struggles faced by the mountaineers, bringing a raw and immersive theatrical experience to life.
PARCO Produce 2024 “Touching the Void ～虚空に触れて～” will be performed in Tokyo from October 8 to November 4 at PARCO Theater, and in Kyoto from November 10 to November 17 at Kyoto Theater!
Story
What I want to know is why you went. The reason you started climbing cliffs and mountains. I don’t understand. Why?
Upon hearing that “Joe (Yoshinori Masakado) is dead,” his sister Sarah (Kotone Furukawa) mourns his death and gathers at a pub with Simon (Toru Tanaka), Richard (Yosuke Asari), and his climbing companions.
In 1985, in the Peruvian Andes, the formidable Siula Grande stands at about 6,400 meters. Young British mountaineers Joe and Simon succeeded in ascending the nearly vertical west face via a previously unexplored route. However, on their descent, Joe broke his leg and fell into a crevasse, hanging in midair. Joe couldn’t climb the rope, and Simon couldn’t pull him up. Both were facing death. Awaiting them after their remarkable achievement was a confrontation with nature, and an intense struggle filled with agony and hardship…
Yoshinori, who has previously worked with international plays but not with foreign directors, will portray Joe Simpson. Known for his diverse roles in film and TV, and his dynamic performances in “THE GREATEST SHOW-NEN,” Yoshinori is set to bring his extensive experience and passion to this challenging role.
Reflecting on this opportunity, Yoshinori shared his enthusiasm:
“I’ve always loved theater and was itching to know when I could perform on stage again. I was thrilled to receive the offer, especially from PARCO Theater, which I’ve always dreamed of performing in. It’s truly an honor to lead this production, and I’m delighted to fulfill another dream.
Although I was nervous about working with an international director for the first time, I was relieved after speaking with Tom online. He’s a very calm person, which put me at ease. I’m eagerly preparing for rehearsals, and training daily.
During the shoot for the visuals, I wore actual mountaineering gear, and there were also shoots in a position where I supported my body only with an ice axe. The studio was kept freezing cold to simulate a snowy mountain, making for some impressive visuals.
It’s astounding that this story is based on real events. While the play involves intense physical work, I’m also incredibly excited. Alongside a wonderful cast, I aim to deliver a thrilling yet warm story that will captivate the audience. Please look forward to it!“
Joining Yoshinori is the talented Kotone Furukawa, playing Joe’s sister Sarah. Kotone is renowned for her unique presence and powerful acting. Toru Tanaka, celebrated for his role in the TV drama “Scarlet,” will play Simon Yates, Joe’s climbing partner. Lastly, Yosuke Asari, known for his distinctive performances since childhood, will take on the role of Richard, the base camp attendant who anxiously awaits the climbers’ return.
Together, under Tom’s expert direction, this exceptional cast will transport audiences to the perilous heights of the Andes, where they will experience a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat drama. This production promises a powerful showcase of human endurance and the unbreakable spirit, making it a must-see event of the 2024 theater season.
Ae! International 