The Power of Song, Felt Deeply: The Stage Play 'Sing a Song' | Keiko Toda

The Power of Song, Felt Deeply: The Stage Play 'Sing a Song'

Returning from a visit to the Anpanman Museum in Sendai, I immediately went into rehearsals for the stage play 'Sing a Song.' Through my role as a singer, I was once again deeply struck by the immense power of 'song.'

Text by TODA Keiko

Even in Difficult Times, Song Offers Solace

In 2018, I was able to visit the Sendai Anpanman Museum again on January 2nd and 3rd. When trying to overcome sadness, the children's energetic shouts of 'Anpanman!!' undoubtedly give me strength. No matter what happens, I must keep going. I felt this strongly again this year. Furthermore, as this year marks the 30th anniversary, my resolve is even firmer.

Immediately after returning from Sendai, rehearsals for the stage play 'Sing a Song' began. My role is 'Aiko Mikami,' a character inspired by the singer Noriko Awaya. Aiko Mikami, a popular singer, was asked to perform for soldiers during the war. Her conditions were: no payment! No wearing of peasant trousers! She would maintain her usual dresses and makeup! And she would sing the songs she loved! She would never sing military songs! She lived her life asserting and upholding these principles. However, even the strong Aiko shed tears when she sang before the kamikaze pilots. It was the climax!

Through playing a singer, I found myself deeply connected to this play. I was once again profoundly aware of the immense power that 'song' possesses. That even in the most difficult times, song can be a 'source of healing.' This holds true even during wartime.

There were six performers: three soldiers and three members of Team Aiko. There was also manager Narita and accompanist Yo-chan. Each presented their own way of life. It was a truly difficult era for everyone, beyond imagination. I had never been involved in a work that directly confronted war before. Yet, I always felt it was necessary whenever I saw someone else performing such pieces.

Reading the script this time, I finally felt it was my turn! Perhaps I wouldn't have been able to take on this role before. I felt that this was a role and a work I could confront now, precisely because it is now. The actions taken at the risk of life and death cannot be performed with a half-hearted spirit, and it's true that I was strongly drawn to the role of a singer.

There were several lines where Aiko risked her life. Honestly, I felt anger and obsession to the point of exhaustion! There was no room for relaxation. Amidst this, singing scenes were interspersed, which I believe offered the audience moments of respite. This is because, without a doubt, songs possess power. There's nothing quite like a healing melody. Most importantly, I myself found healing in the singing scenes.

An Award Acceptance Speech Delivered with Resolve

After concluding the performances in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo, I embarked on the regional tour the very next day. From February 17th to March 25th, I traveled across the country. It was quite a demanding schedule: one performance per location, followed by a travel day. This cycle repeated. Since the beginning of the year, I had been solely focused on my physical condition, spending my time unusually nervously. (Laughs)

As the hotels changed frequently, I sometimes had trouble sleeping, so I started drinking a little before bed during the latter half of the tour. A small carton of wine, about one glass's worth. It was a lifesaver.

Unexpectedly, I received wonderful news during the latter half of the tour. I had won the 43rd Kikuya Kazuo Drama Award for my portrayal of Aiko Mikami! I was very surprised, especially since the performances were still ongoing. This award considers works performed up to the end of the fiscal year, so it was a truly gratifying win. I sincerely believe this is thanks to all the staff, cast, and audience members. Especially since we were a small, elite team this time, we truly supported each other.

Before the award ceremony, I also visited Noriko Awaya's grave. It was still cherry blossom season in Shin-Aomori, and the cemetery was unexpectedly a beautiful garden of cherry blossoms. Ms. Awaya, meeting me for the first time, must have wondered, 'Who is this?' After successfully paying my respects at the grave, I felt a sense of peace. I felt I could move forward another step.

On April 26th, I attended the award ceremony in a kimono. Many people from the stage production also came to support me. The award ceremony itself would be very happy if it weren't for the speech... I thought about it repeatedly in the waiting room and resolved to give my speech calmly. I'd say it was about average, maybe slightly below. (Laughs)

I concluded my speech by saying that I would strive to live up to this prestigious award. I believe that's all there is to it. Thank you all for your immense support for 'Sing a Song.' I look forward to your continued patronage.