An Offensive Revival, Not a Defensive One

While there were changes in the band members for the revival, the new additions brought a fresh energy. The original cast members, in turn, showcased the skills they had honed over the past three years, contributing to a performance delivered with sincere dedication.

My foremost thought for this revival was a strong desire to have as many people as possible experience this work. Though it's an older musical from 1970, it possesses a universal theme. It's a musical, yet it's rich with live performance energy, and it also has substantial dramatic elements. It's a backstage story woven by a select, elite group of nine: the singer Heather Jones, her friends, and her manager, Joe. Those of you who watched from the intimate proximity of the Aoyama Round Theatre must have felt as if you were part of the crew. I truly believe it's a rare and exceptional piece.

The songs are all magnificent, and I've truly come to feel how Heather Jones's life is expressed within them. I loved every number, but I've grown to cherish them even more. In the revival, I particularly poured my feelings into 'Miss America.' It became a powerful declaration of intent: 'Is this really it?! It's not too late, there's still time!'

And, of course, the team camaraderie remained as strong as in the first run, even including our antagonist (?), manager Joe (laughs). There was Go Ueki, who feels like family, and Kanako Irie and Kahori Aso, with whom I'm close in daily life. Each of them brought increased depth to their performances, resulting in truly wonderful teamwork. My heartfelt gratitude to them all.

A Renewed Direction, Exceeding the Original Production

Director G2 chose not to watch the video of the first production until the very end, a decision he made from the outset. It was as if he was determined to approach it with complete freshness, avoiding any mere imitation. We felt the same way. While we reviewed the basic choreography and formations where absolutely necessary, we essentially started from scratch. We took bold approaches, such as changing Jake's instrument, altering the choreography to better highlight the chorus, and reinterpreting the play itself.

The result far surpassed the original production! We were able to address elements that were rushed and left incomplete in the first run, explore more nuanced expressions, and approach each number with a clearer intention. We even received feedback from both the audience and staff that, while it was the same play, it left a different impression. It was truly an offensive revival, not a defensive one. Though, I admit, the raw energy of the first production had its own charm (laughs). I've never been fond of 'revivals,' but I must say, this 'revival' wasn't so bad after all (laughs).

My birthday actually fell during the performance run. Since the story itself is set around Heather's birthday, we sang a birthday song every time. But on that day, the audience's clapping made it even more special. The cast surprised me with a celebration during the pre-show rehearsal, and Go Ueki, dressed as Joe's wife Francesca, brought out the cake. I posted it on my blog, but she was quite a charming Francesca with her strong biceps (laughs).

I also received gifts from everyone. The original caps bearing the team name 'Heather Jones & The Liberated Men’s Band +2,' gifted by Jake, Cheryl, and Alice, were particularly memorable. I wanted to share this 'memento' with everyone, so we later offered these caps on a made-to-order basis. I was delighted that even those who couldn't see the play seemed to appreciate them. Even though the stage run has ended, I like to imagine that 'Heather Jones & The Liberated Men’s Band +2' are still touring and singing somewhere. Thinking so makes it less lonely.

Carry My Heart Away—.
It was a demanding production, requiring singing, dancing, and non-stop talking with hardly any breaks. I hope it remains a lasting memory for everyone who attended.