One of the highlights of my trip to Japan last month was seeing the touring revival of TONKATSU ROCK! Featuring three members of the popular STARTO Jr. group Bishonen. It was an engaging, enjoyable, and most certainly entertaining stage show. Going into the production, I didn’t know anything about the story, and I didn’t speak much Japanese, so I didn’t know what to expect. Still, I was excited for the experience to say I saw a genuine piece of Japanese theatre.

Yuto Nasu, Taisho Iwasaki, and Issei Kanasashi

Set in a small rural shopping district, the story follows three locals: Sukesaburo Hanakawa, a former leader of a motorcycle gang who now runs a fried pork cutlet shop; Masaru Shinozaki, a young teacher unwittingly entrapped by a lovesick student when his own romantic interest dumps him, and Taira Iguchi, an ambitious but hot-headed young boxer with dreams of becoming an international champion.

Taisho Iwasaki, who played Shinozaki, was phenomenal. He kicked off the production with an 80s-inspired musical number that pumped the audience up, and his comedic timing was spot-on. Yuto Nasu, who played Hanakawa, brought seriousness and heart to his role, while Issei Kanasashi, who played Iguchi, exuded confidence and sex appeal without coming off as cocky. He also appeared shirtless on stage multiple times, showcasing his swoon-worthy physique.

All three lead actors delivered impeccable performances, but Taisho Iwasaki truly stood out with his incredible singing voice, excellent comedic timing, and ability to tug at the heartstrings. Even though I don’t speak Japanese fluently, I could still connect with the characters’ emotions, particularly the moments between the three neighbors.

While Bishonen may not be a group I am familiar with, this experience has made me a fan. The more familiar I become with artists signed under the STARTO ENTERTAINMENT umbrella, the more I understand why it is the most prominent male idol factory in Japan. These guys give 150% of themselves to whatever they are doing, and their passion for their craft shows.

It’s an incredible show, and I cannot recommend TONKATSU ROCK! enough. Now on my radar, I can’t wait to see where Bishonen goes and how the guys continue to succeed!

Stay tuned for more from the wonderful world of STARTO ENTERTAINMENT soon so… 

Stay Tuned.