Knowledge:
Japan Selection by SOIL
Bringing Japanese Theatre to International Stage
In Edinburgh : August 18st at Dance Base
In London : August 20th at Japan House London
Language: Japanese / English (Simultaneous interpretation available)
About the event
What is Japan Selection?
SOIL (Stage for Originality, Innovation and Leadership), presented by JPASN (Japan Performing Arts Solidarity Network), is a national initiative supporting the next generation of Japanese theatre producers in reaching international audiences and developing global leadership in the performing arts.
Now in its second year, Japan Selection 2026 showcases eight producers selected through SOIL’s national fellowship program. From immersive theatre and poetic dance works to genre-defying musicals and large-scale adaptations, the featured works represent bold and diverse voices in contemporary Japanese theatre.
This August, two curated events – in Edinburgh and London – offer opportunities for dialogue, connection, and collaboration among producers, artists, and international presenters. Both sessions present the same programme, so you are welcome to join whichever is most convenient – or both.
Dance Base
In Edinburgh - August 18th (Tue)
Held during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, this curated pitch event introduces nine emerging Japanese stage works to international presenters. The session features short pitches, select demo performances, and open networking—with simultaneous interpretation (JP/EN) provided. Discover bold new voices from Japan’s contemporary theatre scene, and explore opportunities for future collaboration.
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Date & Time: Tuesday, 18th August 2026 | 10:30–12:30 (Doors open 10:15)
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Venue: Dance Base Studio 2, 14–16 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2JU
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Admission: Free (RSVP required, max. 50 participants)
Japan House London
In London - August 20th (Thu)
An informal yet exclusive gathering for direct conversation with producers and artists from the Japan Selection 2025 lineup. Held on a UK bank holiday, this special occasion brings together some of Japan’s most representative stage works in one room. Designed for London-based presenters, programmers, and industry professionals, the event offers a rare chance to engage in relaxed, meaningful dialogue and explore future collaboration opportunities.
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Date & Time: Monday, 20th August 2026 | 15:00–17:00 (Doors open 14:30)
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Venue: Japan House London, 101–111 Kensington High Street, London W8 5SA
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Admission: Free (RSVP required, max. 50 participants)
Featured Works
|
Name |
Organization |
Work |
|---|---|---|
|
Kaori Kondo |
daisydoze LLC |
Immersive Theatre “Nekomachi” |
|
Haruka Kono |
Nutmic |
Tales of the Elsewhere Islands (Kanata no Shimatachi no Hanashi) |
|
Honoo Horikawa |
tokyo sisters |
Spring Summer Autumn Winter (Shunkashuto) |
|
Michiho Matsumoto |
Nelke Planning Inc. |
Attack on Titan – the Musical – |
|
Chiemi Kawai |
Shiki Theatre Company |
The Boy and the Beast (Bakemono no Ko) |
|
Ema Murakami |
SPAC – Shizuoka Performing Arts Center |
Hamlet |
|
Rei Nishimura |
HoriPro Inc. |
Chi. – On the Movement of the Earth – |
|
Mao Inoue |
Nappos United Inc. |
The Life of HOKUSAI |
about the organizer
JPASN (Japan Performing Arts Solidarity Network) is a nationwide alliance of over 200 artists, companies, and organizations, committed to fostering sustainability, ethics, and international exchange in Japanese performing arts.
SOIL (Stage for Originality, Innovation and Leadership) is a national initiative supporting the international presence of Japanese performing arts. Powered by JPASN, the program is funded by the Agency for Cultural Affairs and supports creators through global promotion, training, and network-building.
