Actor Keita Machida

If you keep moving without stopping, you will surely come across an opportunity

Actor Keita Machida

■ Profile
He made his acting debut in 2010, and attracted attention for his role as the protagonist's brother-in-law in the NHK morning drama "Hanako to Anne." He has appeared in various dramas, and is currently playing the role of Fujiwara no Kinto in the historical drama "To You, the Light."

Keita Machida is an actor who is currently playing the role of Fujiwara no Kinto in the historical drama "To You Who Shines".KIMONOIST 2024At the awards ceremony, we spoke to him about the mindset and work philosophy he keeps in mind every day as an actor.

■The origins of my dance and acting career

I first encountered dance in high school. Up until then, I had grown up in the countryside and had no connection to dance or performing arts. When I had to join a club while living in a dorm at high school, I chose dance as I wanted to try something new. At first, it was just out of curiosity, but I gradually became absorbed in it, and before long, I discovered the joy of self-expression through dance.
During my university years, I began to seriously consider whether I could make dance my career. During that time, a professional dancer contacted me and I got the chance to join an agency. This was one of the reasons I decided to pursue acting. At the time, I thought, "I'll be able to do it somehow," and I believe that the efforts I put in then actually led to what came next. I felt that if I kept moving, some kind of opportunity would come my way, and many of the efforts I put in then are still useful to me today.

■ Growth brought about by connections with people

As I continue my career as an actor, I have become keenly aware of how important connections with others are. By working together with those around me, rather than just on my own, more opportunities and growth arise. Through my work as an actor, I have been involved in many productions and have had the opportunity to meet many people. I feel that playing a variety of roles has allowed me to face my inner self and led to my growth. In particular, the knowledge and experience I have gained through interactions with others are an invaluable asset to me.

■ Dialogue with myself and the rewards of being an actor

I feel that the best part of being an actor is the dialogue with yourself. By playing a role, you explore the emotions and thoughts inside yourself, and by expressing them, you take a step forward. That's the feeling I get. Also, being able to have a positive impact on audiences through my work is a great reward for me. For someone like me who loved watching movies and dramas, the job of acting was very special. It gives me great joy to now be on the side that provides the same sense of exhilaration I felt as an audience member. There are moments when people can feel something through a work. That is what makes being an actor rewarding, and it is what motivates me to continue doing this job.

New challenges and prospects for the future

I've appeared in many productions so far, but there are still many things I want to try as an actor. For example, I have never tried playing a medical professional, and I would love to do so if the opportunity arises. The profession of acting is never-ending, and I believe it is important to constantly continue to explore new roles and ways of expression. I myself sometimes find myself trapped in negative emotions, but it is at times like these that I try to have the mindset to "find something interesting." Positive energy keeps me positive, and it is this that motivates me to take on new challenges.

■Message to university students

What I want to tell all university students is that "things will work out." There is no need to feel pressured into thinking, "You have to have a dream" or "You absolutely have to do this." If you make a choice that you are happy with and move forward, even if it is just a little at a time, I believe the path will definitely open up. And when you take on a new challenge, it is important to believe in yourself and keep taking action. If you keep moving, you will surely come across an opportunity somewhere.

Student Newspaper Online, June 8, 2024, Interview by Tsuda University 2rd year student, Karin Ishimatsu

■After the interview
He looked each person in the eye as he spoke, and his wonderful personality came through in the interview.
Just like Machida, who values ​​initiative and connections and has paved his own way, I would like to pursue what I find interesting and spend each day cherishing the connections I have with others.
(Yusa Matsuzaka, 3rd year student at Keio University)