The first-ever collaboration between the Evangelion anime series and traditional kabuki theater has been announced. Titled Kabuki Symphony No.9: Evangelion, the production will star kabuki actor Sakon Onoe as Kaworu Nagisa. The role of Shinji Ikari will be revealed later. The performance will debut on February 23, 2026, at the large-scale event EVANGELION:30+; 30th ANNIVERSARY OF EVANGELION, co-produced by Shochiku and Khara.

Quick Summary

・ Kabuki Symphony No.9: Evangelion premieres February 23, 2026, at Yokohama Arena.
・ Sakon Onoe will play Kaworu Nagisa; Shinji Ikari’s casting to be announced later.
・ The production celebrates the 30th anniversary of Neon Genesis Evangelion.
・ Combines kabuki dance, traditional Japanese music, and visual effects.
・ Part of the EVANGELION:30+; 30th ANNIVERSARY OF EVANGELION festival.

What Is Kabuki Symphony No.9: Evangelion?

Kabuki Symphony No.9: Evangelion marks the first official collaboration between the Evangelion series and the traditional Japanese performing art of kabuki. The performance will take place on the third and final day of the EVANGELION:30+; 30th ANNIVERSARY OF EVANGELION festival at Yokohama Arena, running from February 21 to 23, 2026.

The show will blend classical kabuki dance, traditional Japanese music, and projected imagery to create a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience. It serves as a centerpiece of the 30th-anniversary celebrations for the original 1995 Neon Genesis Evangelion anime, which became a nationwide phenomenon upon its broadcast.

Sakon Onoe to Portray Kaworu Nagisa

The production’s newly unveiled key visual features Kaworu Nagisa floating above the sea at sunset in white robes, while Shinji Ikari stands on the shore holding a large spear.

Sakon Onoe, a leading young actor often called the “prince of kabuki,” expressed his enthusiasm for the role, saying:

“Congratulations to the Evangelion series on its 30th anniversary. I’m truly honored to be involved in this milestone event. Evangelion has such a strong impact and distinctive worldview — I’m very excited to see how it can be expressed through kabuki. I will give it my all to bring color to this celebratory moment.”

The Event and Its Anniversary Concept

The EVANGELION:30+; 30th ANNIVERSARY OF EVANGELION festival will divide Yokohama Arena into two main zones: the “EVA EXTRA 30” exhibition area, allowing visitors to explore the history and art of the series, and the “STAGE AREA,” offering diverse live performances and stage programs.

Kabuki Symphony No.9: Evangelion will close the event on February 23, combining traditional performance art with the futuristic themes and philosophy that define Evangelion. The production aims to reinterpret the story’s emotional and existential depth through kabuki’s dramatic and musical traditions.

Evangelion’s Legacy

Created by Hideaki Anno, Neon Genesis Evangelion aired from 1995 to 1996 and reshaped the landscape of Japanese animation. The story follows Shinji Ikari and other young pilots of the Evangelion mecha units as they battle mysterious beings known as Angels, confronting themes of human emotion, isolation, and purpose.

The franchise was later rebooted through the Rebuild of Evangelion film series — Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone (2007), 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance (2009), and 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo (2012) — culminating in Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time (2021), which surpassed 10 billion yen ($65 million) at the box office.

FAQ

Q: What is Kabuki Symphony No.9: Evangelion?
A: It’s the first collaboration between Evangelion and kabuki, combining dance, traditional music, and visuals in a theatrical format.

Q: When and where will it premiere?
A: On February 23, 2026, during the EVANGELION:30+; 30th ANNIVERSARY OF EVANGELION event at Yokohama Arena.

Q: Who plays Kaworu Nagisa?
A: Kabuki actor Sakon Onoe will portray Kaworu Nagisa.

Q: Will Shinji Ikari appear in the production?
A: Yes, but the actor for Shinji’s role will be announced at a later date.

Q: Who produces the event?
A: It’s a joint production between Shochiku and Khara, Inc.

Source : ORICON NEWS