Discover The Life of Hokusai, an internationally acclaimed performance that brings Japan’s legendary artist to life through live theater and digital projection. A must-see fusion of art and storytelling!
Katsushika Hokusai is one of Japan’s most celebrated artists, best known for his iconic print The Great Wave off Kanagawa. However, beyond his masterpieces, Hokusai’s life was filled with passion, tragedy, and an unrelenting dedication to his art. The Life of Hokusai is a critically acclaimed performance that brings his story to life through an innovative fusion of live performance and digital projection.
A Unique Theatrical Experience
Directed, written, and performed by internationally renowned artist Katsumi Sakakura, The Life of Hokusai takes audiences on an emotional journey into the mind of the legendary painter. Hokusai saw himself as a powerful dragon, driven by his artistic ambition but haunted by personal loss—most notably the death of his beloved wife, Koto. His grief and relentless pursuit of artistic perfection are central themes in this visually stunning production.
This internationally acclaimed show utilizes ‘projection live’, an innovative technique pioneered by Sakakura that seamlessly integrates live performance with state-of-the-art digital projection. The result is a breathtaking spectacle that brings Hokusai’s art to life in a way never seen before.
Cast and Creative Team
- Katsumi Sakakura – Director, author, and performer
- Yasuko Fujii – Performer
- Karin Kato – Performer
The Story Behind the Production
The concept for The Life of Hokusai was born in 2018 when executive producer Shin Sugimoto collaborated with choreographer Katsumi Sakakura. With the goal of celebrating Hokusai’s artistic legacy, they formed a dedicated company, financially supported by Global Business Labo and other partners. Since then, the production has received widespread acclaim across the globe.
International Acclaim and Awards
The Life of Hokusai has garnered recognition at prestigious festivals and award ceremonies, further solidifying its status as a world-class production:
- 4-star rating at the 2021 Edinburgh Festival Fringe – The only Japanese work to achieve this honor.
- Winner of the Cool Japan Matching Award 2022 – Sponsored by the Japanese Cabinet Office, this award recognizes outstanding cultural initiatives.
- Arena del Sole Theater, Bologna, Italy (2023) – Received extensive media coverage and captivated audiences in Europe.
Why You Should Experience The Life of Hokusai
If you are fascinated by Japanese culture, art, and history, The Life of Hokusai is a must-see production. Combining theatrical storytelling, cutting-edge digital projection, and mesmerizing performances, this show is an extraordinary tribute to one of Japan’s greatest artistic minds. Whether you are an art enthusiast or a theater lover, this performance promises an unforgettable experience.
Last modified: February 8, 2025
