Program for International Audience – Toyooka Theater Festival 2026

Toyooka Theater Festival is an event for everyone. No matter which language you speak.

For many international visitors, theatre can feel inaccessible due to language barriers. The Toyooka Theater Festival is designed to be inclusive and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of language or cultural background.

The program features a wide range of multilingual and non-verbal performances, making it easy for non-Japanese speakers to fully engage. Many productions in Japanese are presented with foreign-language subtitles, and street performances can be enjoyed visually without any language requirement.

Events take place across Toyooka and its surrounding areas, including the rural farming village of Tanto, the hot spring town of Kinosaki, the scenic Kannabe Highlands, the historic castle town of Izushi, and central Toyooka City.

Multilingual Performances

One highlight is “Kitty” by Satoko Ichihara/Q. Internationally acclaimed director Satoko Ichihara is known for exploring sensitive themes and social taboos in contemporary Japanese society. This latest production follows performances in major cities such as Tokyo, Brussels, Vienna, and Paris. The performance is presented in Japanese, Korean, and Cantonese, with both Japanese and English subtitles.

Guided Tours to enjoy Toyooka Theater Festival

Want to get the most out of the festival? Join our English-guided tours and explore Japanese theater and culture with an expert.

Physical theatre and Non-verbal performance

Another featured performance brings together the Osaka Symphony Orchestra and the circus company to R mansion. This dynamic “hyper circus” blends contemporary music with circus arts, creating a visually stunning experience that appeals to all generations and transcends cultural boundaries.

Tanto Sai Sai

“Tanto Sai Sai” by Karasuma Stroke Rock & the local community takes place on a traditional stage dating back to the Edo period. While performed in Japanese, audiences can still enjoy the expressive Kagura dance and music based on local folklore. It’s a unique opportunity to experience traditions passed down through generations and feel the energy of a local celebration.

To make the experience accessible for international visitors, AI-powered translation glasses are provided for those who participate the following package, allowing you to follow the performance without language barriers.

Festival Center

Your Box Office and Information Hub

The Festival Center, located across from Toyooka Station, serves as the main hub for visitors. Tickets for most official programs (except “Umiyama Musubi”) can be purchased here, and staff are available to help you find performances that match your interests.

Opening Hours:
24th July (Fri) - 17th September (Thu) 12:00-18:00 (Closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays)
18th (Fri) - 27th (Sun) September 10:00-18:00 (Open dairy)


Address:
1-29 Otemachi, Toyooka-shi
Tel:
0796-34-9525

Off-Festival

Much like the Festival Off Avignon or Edinburgh Fringe, independent performers will present their shows in Toyooka in this period without an official invitation from the Festival or its support. This type of spontaneous reaction from ambitious artists makes a Theatre Festival richer and enjoyable.

During the festival, the “Idoshiki Bunkasai” (Mobile Cultural Festival) takes place on the upper floor of a stylish bag shop and atelier along Kaban Street in Toyooka. Over 11 days, visitors can casually drop in to enjoy performances such as physical theatre, music, and plays, while connecting directly with artists in an intimate setting.