Musicals

Pacific Overtures

When the United States sent an expedition to the floating nation of Japan in 1853, how did the peaceful and isolated residents react? Watch Pacific Overtures in London to find out.

Directed by Matthew White of Olivier-nominated Little Shop of Horrors, Pacific Overtures is a musical based on a true story, playing in London. The production is American composer Stephen Sondheim's 9th musical and includes his hypnotic musical numbers like Someone in a Tree, Pretty Lady, and A Bowler Hat. Co-produced with the Umeda Arts Theatre in Japan, the West End musical is a unique combination of Western perspectives presented in Eastern style. Sondheim's most unique and powerful musical has also won immense praise in Tokyo and Osaka.

The Story

Pacific Overtures is a London musical that discusses the effect of Westernisation on a peaceful, traditional Eastern community. Based on the arrival of the United States expedition in 1853 in Japan, the musical shows how the floating nation of Nippon and its peace-loving dwellers are affected by new and Western concepts.

Great for

Fans of Musicals | History Buffs

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Show Details

Genre: Musical

Opening Date: 25 Nov 2023

Closing Date: 25 Feb 2024

Theatre Name: Menier Chocolate Factory

Theatre Capacity: 180

Theatre Facilities: Restrooms, Bar, Cloakroom, Gift Shop, First Aid, Wheelchair Accessibility, Access Toilets, Step-Free Access, Concession Tickets

Dress Code: Smart casual

Cast & Crew

Leading Roles

Kanako Nakano as Tamate

Saori Oda as Shogun/Madam

Takuro Ohno as Kayama

Joaquin Pedro Valdes as Manjiro

Direction

Matthew White

Additional Tips

Keep in mind, that the theatre is air-conditioned throughout the year and can get a bit chilly. Bring along a light jacket if needed.

Pacific Overtures was written in 1976. It explores themes of racism, colonialism, sexual objectification and threats towards women, and generational trauma incited by the opening of Japan to the West.