Interview: Yu Shirota Captures the Magic of Snoopy and Orchestra

Yu Shirota : Since his debut as an actor in 2003, Yu has been active across various fields, including television, film, stage, and music. Some of his notable works include the historical drama “Dousuru Ieyasu (どうする家康)” and the NHK drama “Come Come Everybody,” in which he served as the narrator. He has won numerous awards, such as the Kazuo Kikuta Award. On December 8, Yu will star in and direct “billboard classics × SNOOPY『Magical Christmas Night 2024』.”

This event is a concert set against the backdrop of a forest inspired by the PEANUTS universe, featuring stunning visuals, lighting, and art direction. It brings to life jazz classics associated with Snoopy, timeless Christmas songs from around the world, and popular hits, all performed through the collaboration of a full orchestra and a jazz piano trio. Since last year, Yu has taken on the dual roles of director and lead performer, and this year’s concert will feature guest vocalist Win Morisaki. We interviewed Shirota about this upcoming event.

You participated as a guest performer until the third installment and began directing in the fourth. Looking back on those experiences, how do you feel?

To put it simply, it was a lot of fun. I initially joined as a guest singer, but the combination of the PEANUTS world, high-quality orchestral music, and the special occasion of Christmas made this concert incredibly appealing.

For those who prefer a more traditional orchestra concert, it might seem unconventional. However, my personal preference leans toward emphasizing the charm of Christmas and the PEANUTS universe more boldly. When I had the opportunity to direct last year, I worked to enhance the sense of immersion in the show, even within the constraints of the stage’s acting area.

As a director, what aspects of the production are you most particular about, and what would you like audiences to focus on?

The PEANUTS universe is the most significant element for me. It’s crucial to create a world where Snoopy and his friends seem to exist.

While it’s easy to impress children, crafting an orchestra concert so immersive that adults are equally amazed required a lot of trial and error. That was a major challenge, but it’s also where I put the most effort.

What do you think makes Snoopy’s orchestra concert so appealing?

For those who have never attended an orchestra concert, this is a very approachable entry point. Fans of Snoopy will enjoy the collaboration and the PEANUTS-inspired production elements, which are rarely seen elsewhere.

Even the costumes for the orchestra members were carefully chosen to evoke a sense of forest fairies performing. Instead of the usual formal tuxedos, the attire aligns with the concert’s fantastical atmosphere. This isn’t about quietly sitting and listening to music—it’s a concert where clapping along is encouraged, offering a completely different way to enjoy orchestral music.

As the title “Magical Christmas Night” suggests, the program features iconic Christmas songs performed by outstanding orchestras and singers. It’s a concert that let audiences forget about the real world and immerse themselves in a dreamlike experience.

Last year saw the debut of the song “Yume no Tane (夢の種) ~ I’ll be by your side.” Could you tell us about how it was created?

When I was given the chance to direct last year, I wanted to write a song tied to the concert that could also serve as an anthem to support people’s dreams. Collaborating with Takana Miyamoto, the music director and pianist, we created the song during a session.

For me, becoming an entertainer was a dream I’ve had since childhood. However, I can’t say that I achieved it on my own—it’s something that was made possible by the support of so many people.

Along the way, I’ve received immense inspiration and energy from music. With that in mind, I titled this song Yume no Tane (Seed of Dreams), hoping to deliver the same kind of energy to others through this concert.

To adults who feel, “I’ve always had a dream but haven’t achieved it yet” or “People criticize me, but I believe I can do it,” I want to say, “I’m here, so you will be alright.” If this song can give them some reassurance and make their dreams feel a little closer, that would make me very happy.

Finally, do you have a message for those looking forward to this concert?

For those who’ve never been to an orchestra concert, this is a great starting point. The collaboration with Snoopy offers something unique that’s hard to find elsewhere. 

Whether you’re a fan of Christmas music, winter melodies, or orchestral entertainment, I’m confident that you’ll enjoy this concert. 

The setlist includes recognizable tunes, from Western and J-pop to classic PEANUTS jazz themes, creating a full-course experience that’s as diverse as it is satisfying. Each guest performer brings their unique presence to the stage, making every concert special. 

For those who want to fully immerse themselves in live entertainment, this is the perfect event. Treat yourself or your loved ones to an unforgettable Christmas experience with this magical concert.

Photo Credit: [© 2024 Peanuts Worldwide LLC　Ayaka Ozaki]

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