Shocking Twist: Demon Slayer Stage Show Cancelled Amidst Director's Indictment

Highlights

The kabuki adaptation of Demon Slayer has been canceled indefinitely due to "various circumstances," leaving fans disappointed and uncertain about its future.

The highly anticipated stage adaptation of Demon Slayer, a popular anime and manga series with international acclaim, has been cancelled. This decision comes in light of the official indictment of its director, Ichikawa Ennosuke IV, for his connection to a double suicide. Consequently, uncertainty looms over the future of the production, overshadowed by this grim event.

Caution: This article includes references to suicide. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, support is available. Please consult the suicide crisis hotline specific to your country.

The highly anticipated kabuki version of the popular anime series Demon Slayer has been called off. Originally scheduled to be performed at Shinbashi Enbujo in Tokyo during February and March 2024, the production company Shochiku has stated that the show's schedule will be put on hold indefinitely due to "various circumstances." There is currently no information regarding a possible rescheduling, raising the possibility of permanent cancellation.

Kabuki, a traditional style of Japanese stage theater, is known for its performances of both ancient and contemporary stories. The Demon Slayer kabuki show was intended to be a part of the cutting-edge Super Kabuki II series, which blends the traditional art of kabuki with modern stage technology. Kabuki, highly cherished by numerous individuals in Japan, attracts a diverse audience from all walks of life.

Demon Slayer, an immensely popular anime and manga series, has gained worldwide recognition in recent years. With three anime series already released, along with a groundbreaking international movie, it has captivated audiences globally. The manga series is also highly regarded, making it a sought-after theme for collaborations and events such as this stage production.

The news regarding the Demon Slayer show surfaced following the official indictment of the show's director, Ichikawa Ennosuke IV, on July 28th, 2023. Ennosuke was also scheduled to participate in a play, although his role had not been disclosed. Tragically, Ennosuke's parents committed a double suicide on May 17th and 18th, 2023. Prosecutors have alleged that Ennosuke was involved in assisting them. These distressing circumstances gave rise to accusations of a family suicide pact.

On May 17th, Ennosuke administered excessive sleeping pills to his parents, resulting in their demise. He himself suffered a collapse but managed to survive. Subsequently, on June 27th, he was apprehended on suspicion of aiding in his mother's death, followed by allegations of aiding in his father's death on July 18th. At first, both arrests were based on suspicion, but he has now been formally indicted for the crimes.

The Demon Slayer Super Kabuki II stage show had the potential to attract a large audience, consisting of both traditional kabuki enthusiasts and avid fans of the anime series seeking a fresh portrayal of the story. Unfortunately, the show has been indefinitely postponed, necessitating the appointment of a new director in order to revive it, if possible. Additionally, the production will have to contend with the looming challenge of overcoming the negative impact of Ennosuke's previous involvement.