Warabi-za Festival Theater "LAB" Makes Its Tokyo Debut

Warabi-za, a theater company based in Akita, will present "LAB," the second production in its Festival Theater series, from Wednesday, December 16 to Sunday, December 20, 2026, at Asakusa Hana Theater, next to Asakusa Hanayashiki. This is the first time "LAB" will be performed in Tokyo.

Story and Highlights

The story is set in the near-future "Wa Labi Robot Research Institute." While "BON-ODORI" is booming around the world, the original dance "forms" are in danger of collapsing. Centered on an urgent mission to send AI dance robots as models to the world, this Bon Odori romantic comedy, full of laughter and tears, is played out by researchers, dance robots, and taiko robots. The script and structure are by Kensuke Yokouchi.

The Audience Become "Taiko Robots"

Every seat in the house is a "taiko seat." As taiko robots supporting the research, audience members play taiko drums from their seats and also join the Bon Odori dance circle.

Japan's Three Great Bon Odori in One Stage

• Nishimonai Bon Odori (Akita)
• Awa Odori (Tokushima)
• Gujo Odori (Gifu)

Performance Information

• Schedule: Dec. 16 (Wed) 18:30 (open dress rehearsal) / Dec. 17 (Thu) 14:00 & 18:30 / Dec. 18 (Fri) 14:00 / Dec. 19 (Sat) & Dec. 20 (Sun) 11:00 & 15:00
• Running time: Approx. 80 minutes
• Tickets: VIP seats, general: 7,800 yen / 1st-floor arena seats, general: 5,800 yen / 2nd-floor balcony seats, general: 3,800 yen (Children, ages 4–18, half price; includes Hanayashiki admission ticket)

December 18 is "Akita Hospitality Day," with an appearance by Namahage, a mini stage of Akita performing arts, a local products corner, and more. Tickets are on sale now through the Warabi-za online ticket site and other outlets.