The stage play "Terakoya Seigido: Master Runs" is a heartwarming story of human connection, filled with laughter and excitement.

On August 14, 2026, the stage play "Terakoya Seigido: Master Runs" opened at the Sunshine Theatre in Tokyo.
The novel "Terakoya Seigido: Shisho, Hashiru" (published by Shogakukan Bunko), by Naoki Prize-winning author Shogo Imamura, known for the "Ushu Boro Tobi-gumi Series" and "Ikusagami," has been adapted for the stage.
Shogo Imamura's works depict the humble lives of ordinary people and the feelings they harbor in their hearts with a refreshing and invigorating style.
Writer and director Go Aoki brings to the theatrical space the exhilarating and euphoric feeling that can only be experienced in Shogo Imamura's works.
We were able to cover the public dress rehearsal that took place on January 14th, prior to the opening day.

A heartwarming story of a temple school, woven with human kindness and sword fighting ~A student's theater review~

I was looking forward to seeing how the works of historical novelist Shogo Imamura would be portrayed on stage. The protagonist is depicted as a teacher at a temple school who warmly watches over the growth of his students, but he also has an unexpected side as a former "strongest ninja," and his brilliant swordsmanship was impressive. I also found the effective use of the curtain in the middle of the stage, with scenes changing at the back while the acting continued at the front, to be interesting. As the title "Terakoya Seigido: Master Runs" suggests, there was a scene where the protagonist came down into the audience and ran, creating a sense of realism that cannot be experienced on stage alone. It was a play that could be enjoyed by parents and children together, and it made me think about "living for someone else."
Emari Oike, 1st year student at Japan Women's University

With its action sequences and heartwarming human drama, this was a truly wonderful play that made me glad it was my first stage experience. I really enjoyed watching the protagonist's compassionate character. It was also fascinating to see how the protagonist, a former ninja who was initially wary of those around him, changed his inner self and attitude. Moreover, the powerful acting, expressions, and voices unique to the stage made the characters' emotions feel much closer. There were many fight scenes, creating a sense of realism, and it was a play that kept you on the edge of your seat. There were many ad-libbed and funny moments, but there were also many memorable scenes, and after watching it, I felt like I wanted to cherish my connections with the people around me.
Aya Tajiri, 1st year student at Nihon University

While it's clear that Juzo has deep feelings for his daughters, as you watch the story unfold, it becomes clear that they cherish Juzo even more, making it a truly heartwarming tale.
There were many moments that made me laugh, but as the story progressed, the tension increased, and I found myself unable to take my eyes off the stage, wondering what would happen next. I was completely engrossed until the very end.
And seeing the way of life of Juzo, who serves as a teacher at the private school "Seigido," made me realize that there's no need to assume that "it's too late now."
It was a performance that made me realize that you can start over as many times as you need, and that it's okay to find something you love and start doing it at any age!
Yurie Watanabe, second-year student at Josai International University

<Staff Comment>
[Written and directed by: Go Aoki]
The cast and crew have worked together in rehearsals, resulting in a play that is both playful and delicate. I can't wait for us to share it with our audience. If you focus on the bad in people and the world, you can see an endless amount of negativity, but this play simply tries to see the good in people. It teaches us that everything depends on one's mindset. I hope that this uplifting play will reach as many people as possible.

<Comments from the cast>
[Juzo Sakairi: Hirofumi Araki]
I am very happy that we can now begin the show.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to not only the cast but also all the staff for their support, which allowed us to continue rehearsing.
I will continue to perform with all my heart and soul, challenging myself to create this work and enjoying the chemical reaction between it and the audience who sits in the seats.
Thank you for your continued support.

[Mutsuki's role: Michiru Irodori]
The stage production "Terakoya Seigido: Master Runs" is finally about to begin.
I have cherished the time we spent together, gradually taking shape as we practiced.
The character I play, Mutsuki, is a woman who trusts and supports her husband, Juzo, but also has a strong sense of self.
I hope to carefully convey the love that flows between the two of them.
Along with the song I'll be singing in the play, I want to cherish this stage as Mutsuki.
Please enjoy it at the theater.

[Kageharu: Yohei Isshiki]
It seems that a common characteristic among Japanese people is that they feel they can perform better and be happier when they are working for the benefit of others.
I feel that this is exactly the case with the protagonist of this work, Juzo, and the way he is saved by the people he loves is somehow comforting, as if he is showing us a "model of happiness."
This is a work that will make you feel a little more affectionate towards the person you're having a meal with than usual. Please enjoy it along with your meal at Sunshine City.

[Chiori Ikoma: Miki Yagi]
I'm filled with so much joy and excitement now that the curtain is finally about to rise!
I will do my best to convey Chiori's honesty and tomboyish personality to everyone to the fullest extent.
As we've continued rehearsing, I think the team's unity and camaraderie have grown even stronger, so we'll continue to enjoy ourselves until the very end and create the best possible show!
Look forward to the stage play "Terakoya Seigido: Master Runs"!
We'll be waiting for you at the theater!

[Tsukioka Tetsunosuke: Ayuru Kojima]
This will be my first stage appearance, so I am filled with gratitude and excitement that we are able to have the show without any problems. Everything I have seen and experienced during rehearsals has been unlike anything I have ever experienced before, and every day has been very fresh. I will cherish the feelings I have because this is my first time, and I will enjoy each and every performance to the fullest, and I will do my best to convey the charm of the work to everyone. Please come and enjoy it at the theater!

[Yoshitaro Tan'iro: Sora Okuma]
It's finally starting!
I feel honored to be able to perform such a wonderful work in such a wonderful place as the Sunshine Theatre!
The theme of "belief" is depicted throughout the work. I spent a lot of time thinking about how to convey that message during rehearsals. The character I play, Yoshitaro, is a particularly cheerful boy!
We will give our all in every performance so that we can deliver that brightness and energy to everyone! We look forward to seeing you at the theater!

[Genya: Akira Murakami]
I am very excited as the play "Terakoya Seigido: Master Runs" is finally about to open. After the rehearsal period, my feelings for this work have grown even stronger, and combined with the dynamic sword fighting, I believe it has become a coming-of-age period drama that will resonate with many people. I will put my heart and soul into each and every performance so that I can deliver the charm of this work to the audience to the fullest extent!
Please come to the theater!

[Kyuma's role: Naoki Kubota]
I had the opportunity to try many new things on this stage. Stepping into the theater, I was once again strongly reminded of how much I am supported by everyone in the company and how I am able to participate in this production. We have all worked together as one to get through it. I believe we can deliver entertainment that is perfect for this summer, so please come to the theater!

[Azuma Hyobu-no-Ei role: Koji Suzuki]
The emotional impact of the original novel is condensed into a concise 2 hours and 10 minutes!
Burdened by his past, Juzo desperately tries to live a humane life. His daughters are cheerful and full of energy. A warm and deep bond exists between their master and his children.
Mutsuki, tossed about by a heartbreaking fate, lives beautifully, carrying her father's wishes in her heart.
The anguish and emptiness of those who live, or have lived, as ninjas. A fierce battle where both sides clash.
I can't put it into words! I really hope you'll go see it at the theater!

[Playing the role of Tan-iro Fukusuke: Iyose Gamu]
The play "Terakoya Seigido: Master Runs" is finally opening.
I believe that we, along with the original author Mr. Imamura, the writer and director Mr. Aoki, and all the cast and staff, have created a work that can be enjoyed by people of all ages!
This is a fast-paced show that will blow away the lingering summer heat, so we look forward to seeing you in Ikebukuro!

[Gennojō Suzuki: Yoshihiro Minami]
The show is finally opening. First of all, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone involved for making it possible to open the show without any problems. For all 20 performances, I would like to face the people in front of me with a fresh perspective and while cherishing the nuances of human relationships. The highlight is undoubtedly the four fresh young women. You will surely be moved by their earnest efforts to help their teacher who has been taking care of them.
We'll be waiting for you at the theater.

[Kyubei Sakairi: Nobuo Kyo]
I can't hide my joy at being able to have a successful opening day and my excitement at the prospect of sharing this wonderful work with everyone.
I've learned through my work and daily practice that it's always important to "believe" in people and your comrades, no matter the era. I would be delighted if you could come see the show with your friends, family, or even by yourself.
We hope you'll feel the refreshing breeze of a hot summer day. We look forward to seeing you at the theater.

[Gozo Ohira: Akira Yamamoto]
The curtain is finally rising! The play "Terakoya Seigido: Master Runs"!
Under the direction of Go Aoki, the entire staff and cast have worked together as one, sweating through rehearsals.
Each and every cast member is incredibly charming. I am confident that this will be a show that fans of the original work will enjoy.
Please come to Sunshine Theatre!
We'll be expecting you!

[Outline of performance]

Tickets (all seats reserved, tax included): General admission: Weekday performances ¥11,000, Weekend performances ¥12,000
U-18 Weekday performances: 3,000 yen Weekend performances: 4,000 yen
※ preschooler admission not

Ticket sales: Lawson Ticket https://l-tike.com/terakoya-seigido/(L code: 32827)
· E + https://eplus.jp/terakoya-seigido/
· Ticket Pia http://w.pia.jp/t/terakoya-seigido/
Official website for the stage production https://toei-stage.jp/terakoya-seigido/
Official X @Toei_stages (https://x.com/Toei_stages）

Staff
Music: Asakusa Jinta
Action Director: Yoshihiro Minami Choreography: Umebo (Kazuki Amano / Yusuke Umezawa)
Stage design: Toshie Tanaka Lighting: Shigeo Saito Sound: Takuhei Aoki
Costumes: Yusuke Hojo (Shochiku Costumes) Hair & Makeup: Miyuki Hayashi (Studio AD)
Wig: Okumatsu Wig Props: Hatori Kenichi
Assistant Director: Akane Yamashita Stage Director: Akiyoshi Tsutsui
Promotional Art: Hiroyuki Kawamoto Casting Assistance: Mai Sugiyama Production: MIMOZA
Sponsored by: Tokyo Zaitaku Co., Ltd.
Planning: Toei Watanabe Entertainment
Presented and produced by: Toei Company, Ltd.
©Shogo Imamura/Shogakukan/Stage play "Terakoya Seigido: Master Runs"

Student Newspaper Online, August 14, 2026 Interviewees: Emari Oike (1st year, Japan Women's University), Aya Tajiri (1st year, Nihon University), Yurie Watanabe (3rd year, Josai International University)