Review: 'ENDLESS SHOCK' - CREATED, COMPOSED, DIRECTED, AND STARRING KOICHI DOMOTO

Endless SHOCK: A historic stage production starring Koichi Domoto (KinKi Kids) (Click here to read Interview: Koichi Domoto & Yuma Nakayama on the Final Year of 'Endless SHOCK') that has been ongoing since 2000. This year, the show opened on April 11 at the Imperial Theatre in Tokyo, with Koichi not only starring but also taking on the roles of creator, composer, and director. The total number of SHOCK performances has surpassed 2000, and Koichi holds the record for the most performances by a single actor in Japan. Due to its immense popularity, it is often referred to as "the hardest theatre ticket to get in Japan." This year's performance marks Koichi’s final appearance in the starring role. The major rival roles in the production will be played by Shori Sato (timelesz) for the April to May (Imperial Theatre) and September (Hakataza Theater) performances, Yuma Nakayama (Click here to read Interview: Koichi Domoto & Yuma Nakayama on the Final Year of 'Endless SHOCK') for the July to August (Umeda Arts Theater) performances, and Tatsuya Ueda (KAT-TUN) for the November (Imperial Theatre) performances.

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Broadway, New York. At the heart of the ever-fluctuating show business, the entertainer KOICHI (Koichi Domoto) strives for the pinnacle. Although his company performs in a small off-Broadway theater, KOICHI's shows are always a huge success. Every member of the company wants to continue performing with KOICHI. One day, a newspaper article praises KOICHI’s show, and they receive an offer from Broadway. The company is thrilled, and KOICHI and his childhood friend YUMA (Yuma Nakayama) also start dreaming, but this offer gradually creates a rift between them. Amidst this tension, an incident occurs that separates KOICHI’s body and soul, yet KOICHI remains steadfast in his belief that "The Show Must Go On!" and works to unite the company.

The show begins with a dazzling, Takarazuka Revue-like illuminated tiered set, symbolizing KOICHI's off-Broadway stage. Standing at the center with the spirit of "The Show Must Go On!" is KOICHI, whose princely presence and dramatic flying and flying car scenes captivate the audience. From the outset, the show unfolds on a grand scale, filling the viewers with anticipation for what is yet to come.

The conflict between YUMA and KOICHI, sparked by the offer from Broadway, showcased their serious acting skills, creating a striking contrast with the glamorous show scenes. Six months later, KOICHI and his company stand on Broadway, fulfilling their long-cherished dream. However, during the intermission of that day’s performance, YUMA argues with KOICHI, deepening the rift between them. Amid this tension, the "Japanesque" segment begins. The clash between KOICHI’s and YUMA’s factions unfolds amidst the thunderous sounds of taiko drums and the warriors' cries. The energetic sword fight that fills the stage creates a breathtaking sense of tension.

In the reluctant  duel with KOICHI with a real sword, YUMA’s madness was overwhelming. KOICHI, struck by YUMA’s blade, tumbles down a 20-step staircase at high speed, leaving the audience breathless with the sheer intensity of the performance. Despite being covered in blood, Koichi continues the show but collapses at the end of the act.

The second act depicts KOICHI’s journey as he hovers between life and death, completing his final stage with the company members despite having lost his soul.

The stage, covered in crimson cloth, reverberates with the sound of taiko drums, heightening the tension before KOICHI's flight. The scene where KOICHI soars above the audience, relying solely on his strength, showcases Koichi’s professionalism and his ease as an entertainer. The taiko drum performance between YUMA and KOICHI, surrounded by a circle of drums, is a moment of condensed energy that defines the entire stage.

KOICHI ascends a ladder supported by manpower and leaps from one ladder to another suspended in mid-air. On the stage below, YUMA and ten other men play the taiko drums with fervor, boosting KOICHI’s spirit. He continued to soar through the air, spinning with a paper umbrella in hand. It was a series of peaks that made one think, "This must be the climax," leaving the audience in constant amazement at how the performance kept surpassing expectations.

As a grand cherry blossom tree appears on stage, the moment of farewell arrives. KOICHI, smiling at his companions, disappears into the mist, leaving the audience deeply moved.

"Endless SHOCK" is a breathtaking entertainment extravaganza featuring flying stunts, sword fights, staircase falls, singing, dancing, acrobatics, taiko drumming, and magic. The seamless coordination among the performers, coupled with intricate lighting and stage effects, elevates the production's quality. The costumes are meticulously designed, and the quick-change scenes are executed flawlessly. This production is not only a delight for Koichi Domoto's fans but also offers immense satisfaction to those unfamiliar with him, presenting a world-class entertainment experience that leaves audiences in awe.

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Photo Credit :[Ayaka Ozaki]

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