On March 18, 2025, I enjoyed watching the musical Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts at Tennozu Galaxy Theatre. I walked into the venue eager to see how the enchanting world of the original story would be brought to life on stage—what I experienced far exceeded my expectations.
A Breathtaking Performance and a Stunning World
Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts – the KING of BEASTS masterfully recreated its grand fantasy setting on stage. Daigo Kato, portraying Leonhart, the Beast King, commanded the audience’s attention with his powerful presence and acting prowess. Meanwhile, Kokoro Kuge, playing Sariphi, the sacrificial maiden, delivered a delicate and resolute performance, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
The direction and choreography mesmerized, skillfully immersing the audience in a fantasy world. Tokyo performances run from March 14 to March 23 at Tennozu Galaxy Theatre, followed by Osaka performances from March 28 to March 30 at Umeda Arts Theater, Drama City. This production offers a rare opportunity to enter a living, breathing fantasy realm.
Costumes | Intricate Designs that Enhance the Characters
One of the highlights of this production was the meticulously designed costumes, which perfectly encapsulated each character’s essence and the grand fantasy setting. Inspired by animal motifs, the designs featured striking details—fur textures, elaborate embroidery, and carefully placed embellishments that elevated the visual appeal.
Beyond aesthetics, the costumes were crafted with movement in mind. Flowing capes and robes accentuated the actors’ gestures, adding dramatic flair to their performances. The selection of fabrics was also remarkable; shimmering gold accents and rich textiles reflected the stage lighting beautifully, making the characters appear even more ethereal.
These costumes weren’t just attire; they were an extension of the characters, enriching the storytelling experience.
Acting | Captivating Performances that Command the Stage
Daigo Kato’s portrayal of Leonhart was nothing short of phenomenal. His deep, resonant voice and commanding posture embodied the king’s authority and underlying tenderness. In moments of inner conflict, his subtle yet powerful expressions conveyed a depth of emotion that left the audience breathless.
Yusuke Yata, in the role of Set, delivered a vocal performance that was nothing short of electrifying. Though he had only a brief solo in the first act, his presence was undeniable. His final scene, charged with sorrow and turmoil, sent chills down my spine.
Meanwhile, Kotohiro Shirakashi’s performance as Fenrir was an intense standout. Every movement carried raw emotion, leaving a lasting impact and adding depth to the narrative. His passion was palpable, making it impossible to look away.
Music & Dance | Powerful Songs and Dynamic Performances
The musical score was grand and cinematic, resonating deeply with the audience. The dance sequences, particularly those featuring the beastkin characters, were energetic. Despite a small ensemble, the cast seamlessly built an immersive and visually stunning world.
Braiding Culture | How Stage Costumes Connect to Japanese Kumihimo
Watching this production from the perspective of a craftsperson gave me a deeper appreciation for how traditional Japanese aesthetics appear subtly throughout the costume design. Although the outfits are rooted in fantasy rather than historical accuracy, several elements echoed the visual language of kumihimo—layered cords, decorative ties, and color harmonies that emphasize both strength and elegance.
In Japanese textiles, kumihimo cords have long been used to fasten armor, adorn ceremonial attire, and create symbolic accents that represent protection and connection. On stage, these visual cues appeared in the structured belts, rope-like trimmings, and the interplay of contrasting colors. The designers clearly understood how braided ornamentation enhances a character’s presence and movement, much like how kumihimo has traditionally shaped silhouettes in kimono culture.
As someone who creates kumihimo for jewelry and modern fashion, I found the color palettes particularly inspiring. The use of deep jewel tones, muted golds, and layered neutrals provided new ideas for future cord combinations. Even when not explicitly using kumihimo, the stage demonstrated how braided motifs and cord-like details can enrich storytelling through costume design.
For me, watching theater is not only a pleasure—it is part of my creative research. Each performance offers new insights into how braided aesthetics can resonate in contemporary design.
Final Thoughts | A Profoundly Moving Stage Experience
Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts faithfully preserved the essence of the original story while introducing fresh elements unique to live theater. The synergy between the cast’s passionate performances, striking visuals, and evocative music heightened the story’s emotional weight.
The final scene was incredibly moving, leaving me in awe long after the curtain fell. Whether you’re a fan of the original or entirely new to the story, this production is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you.