“MANGALOGUE : HINOTORI”is a theatrical manga live show that immerses the entire audience into the world of the story. It achieves this by projecting the manga itself onto large-scale screens and blending sound, light, technological effects, and live narration.
A manga experience where the entire venue shares the story
The defining feature of “MANGALOGUE : HINOTORI” is that it treats the very act of turning the pages of Osamu Tezuka’s “Phoenix” manga—colored specifically for this performance—as the mechanism of the show itself, rather than replacing it with video or stage elements.
Additionally, the use of a robotic arm equipped with a camera at its tip to serve as the stage navigator is a production technique rarely seen elsewhere. As if imbued with life, the robotic arm follows the manga panels, projecting its gaze onto a giant LED screen.
MANGALOGUE : HINOTORI
The narrative centers on “Phoenix: Future Chapter.” This story, depicting a society coexisting with AI and robots, was conceived over half a century ago yet contains numerous parallels with current technology and societal conditions.
The performance utilizes over 100 newly colored original artwork pieces, specially recolored by Tezuka Productions specifically for LED theater projection. Based on the black-and-white originals drawn roughly 60 years ago, former assistants meticulously applied color to each piece, respecting the original lines and page layouts.
The stage features the cast “MANGALOGUER,” who advance the manga alongside robotic arms, and a stellar voice cast breathing life into the characters.
The cast includes Mari Natsuki as Phoenix, Arata Furuta as Tamami, and Koichi Yamadera—who also plays the iconic Iron Arm role symbolizing this production—as Tamami.
Audiences will experience the unique intensity of a live performance, where artists resonate across time and space.
About “Phoenix: Future Chapter”
Image provided by Asahi Shimbun Publications
One chapter of the 12-part Phoenix series by Osamu Tezuka, Japan’s representative manga artist hailed as the “God of Manga” for his revolutionary achievements. Set in the farthest future of the series, the world after the year 3404 AD.
First published in 1967, the story unfolds against a backdrop of Earth’s environmental devastation, the transformation of human society, and research into artificial life.
The work depicts elements reminiscent of AI and cloning technology, reflecting the scientific perspectives and visions of the future prevalent at the time. Within the overarching structure of the Phoenix series, which spans from the past to the future, the “Future Arc” is positioned as the episode depicting humanity’s ultimate destination.
MANGALOGUE : HINOTORI
📍 MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives Box1000
🎟️Tickets available here
🚇Directly connected to Takanawa Gateway Station, approx. 3 min walk from Sengakuji Station Exit A4