[2025] Notte Stellata 2025

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.07

 

 

Source: https://www.nikkansports.com/sports/news/202503070001247.html

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250307131041/https://www.nikkansports.com/sports/news/202503070001247.html

 

Yuzuru Hanyu and Mansai Nomura collaborate for the first time on "SEIMEI" - a memorial to the 14th anniversary of the earthquake disaster, "MANSAI Bolero"

 

Yuzuru Hanyu (30), a two-time Olympic Winter Olympics champion in men's figure skating and in his third year as a professional, and Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura (58) performed together for the first time. The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu Notte Stellata 2025," in which Hanyu serves as the presenter, opened on the 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grandy 21) in Miyagi, marking their first collaboration in 10 years since they first met.

 

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Set in the region affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, which will soon mark its 14th anniversary, this performance was a message of hope and a tribute to the ongoing recovery efforts. Now in its third consecutive year, the 2025 edition welcomed Nomura as a special guest.

 

Nomura brought his renowned 2011 performance, "MANSAI Bolero," originally created as a dedication to "requiem and rebirth" following the earthquake. His art seamlessly intertwined with Hanyu’s mesmerizing skating, beautifully enhanced by his elegant traditional Japanese attire. This fusion of Kyogen and figure skating created a deeply moving spectacle, honoring both tradition and resilience.

 

Hanyu performed a graceful dance to the tune of Ravel's masterpiece dance music "Bolero" and to the foot-stomping rhythm of Mansai. The venue, which had been the largest morgue in Miyagi Prefecture immediately after the disaster, drew a standing ovation from fans united in their hopes for recovery.

 

The bond between Yuzuru Hanyu and Mansai Nomura dates back to the 2015–16 season, when Hanyu performed his free program "SEIMEI," inspired by the film Onmyoji, in which Nomura played Abe no Seimei. This program became Hanyu's signature piece, and he went on to win his second consecutive Olympic gold medal with it at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the program’s creation.

 

Their long-awaited collaboration came about after an offer from Hanyu. They coordinated their movements during rehearsals, and their "SEIMEI" collaboration became a reality for the first time at the beginning of the second part. "I used up all my physical and mental energy, to the point that I thought today might be the final performance. With regards to SEIMEI in particular, I always felt something like dignity from behind me, and with the pressure of never being able to make a mistake, I was so nervous I really thought it was the Olympics," said Hanyu. It was a highlight of their efforts.

 

In a scene reminiscent of a film, Nomura called out, "Ten-Chi-Jin" (Heaven, Earth, and Man) and "Appear, Yuzuru Hanyu!" At that moment, Hanyu emerged as Shikigami (a spirit servant). Mansai dashed along the rinkside as Hanyu glided across the ice, performing to his second Olympic gold medal program, "SEIMEI." 

 

Hanyu executed a perfect quadruple Salchow and a flawless combination jump following a quadruple toe loop. The world of Onmyoji was vividly brought to life on the ice, culminating in a breathtaking finish accompanied by the sound of a flute. As the performance ended, the arena erupted in awe-struck cheers, and even after the two performers exited, a buzz of astonishment lingered throughout the venue.

 

The performance also brought together fellow skaters from Japan and abroad, including Mura Takahito, Suzuki Akiko, Miyahara Satoko, Tanaka Keiji, Hongo Rika, Javier Fernandez, Shae-Lynn Bourne, and Jason Brown.

 

In the opening of the first act, Hanyu performed "notte stellata," a program he previously skated during the exhibition at the PyeongChang Olympics. The title, which means "starry night" in Italian, holds deep significance for him. The program was named after the brilliant night sky he saw during the blackout following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake in his hometown, Sendai—a moment that gave him a sense of hope. Through his performance, he delivered a heartfelt message and a wish.

 

Hanyu reminisced, “On March 11, 2011, on a day when so much was lost and destroyed, I looked up at the night sky, and it was incredibly beautiful… I can't simply say that those stars gave me hope, but I will skate with prayers from my soul for all that has been lost and all that is alive now," and performed with Mansai together in a poignant tribute to remembrance and healing.

 

In an interview after the performance, he revealed his determination, saying, "I skated while hoping and praying that I could do something, that I could be a catalyst for something in response to the Great East Japan Earthquake and the various other disasters."

 

On the first day, 6,256 people filled the venue. The show will run for three days until the 9th at the same venue. [Jun Kinoshita]

 

After his first performance with Hanyu, Nomura Mansai said, "He really loves Onmyoji. He remembers things that I had already forgotten. When we met 10 years ago, he had feelings inside him, but there were still some things he couldn't put into words. But now, with experience, he has broken out of his shell and is opening up. It's a wonderful thing. I was very honored to be involved in this important song that won the gold medal. I think SEIMEI was also a performance that connects to 3/11. I was almost overcome with emotion when I performed MANSAI Bolero here."

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.07

 

 

Source: https://mainichi.jp/articles/20250307/k00/00m/050/333000c

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250307113836/https://mainichi.jp/articles/20250307/k00/00m/050/333000c

 

Figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu performs a memorial dance with Mansai Nomura in disaster-stricken Miyagi

 

Ahead of the 14th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake, an ice show hosted by Yuzuru Hanyu (30), a professional skater who won two consecutive Winter Olympics gold medals in men's figure skating, opened on the 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Rifu-cho, Miyagi Prefecture. Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura also appeared and performed a collaboration of a different dimension on the rink. He offered prayers for the disaster area with a dance of requiem.

 

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This year marks the third time the show has been held in his hometown of Miyagi during the earthquake disaster period since 2023. The show, named "Hanyu Yuzuru Notte Stellata 2025," means "starry sky" or "starry night" in Italian. The name comes from the fact that Hanyu, who is from Sendai City, felt hope in the beautiful starry sky he saw at the evacuation center on the night of March 11, 2011, when the earthquake occurred.

 

At the beginning, Hanyu greeted the audience with a microphone in hand, saying, "I will skate with prayers from my soul for everything." At the end of the first part, the much-anticipated collaboration between Hanyu and Nomura featured Nomura's signature piece, "MANSAI Bolero," performed on a special stage in the center of the ice. As Hanyu and the other skaters skated around the stage, there was the powerful foot-stomping that is characteristic of Kyogen.

 

　At the start of the second part, Hanyu and Nomura performed a passionate program called "SEIMEI," which is one of his signature programs. Hanyu landed three consecutive jumps, starting with a quadruple salchow and a quadruple toe loop, and showed off a highly polished performance. Nomura appeared dressed as Abe no Seimei, the character from the film "Onmyoji," in which he starred, to watch the skating, making for a spectacular performance by two skaters who have both been at the top of their fields. The show will run until the 9th.

 

 

 

 

Source: https://mainichi.jp/articles/20250307/k00/00m/050/413000c

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250307151621/https://mainichi.jp/articles/20250307/k00/00m/050/413000c

 

Yuzuru Hanyu: "I was so nervous I thought it was the Olympics" Show with Mansai Nomura

 

Ahead of the 14th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake, the ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu Notte Stellata 2025", hosted by Yuzuru Hanyu (30), a professional skater who won two consecutive Winter Olympics gold medals in men's figure skating, opened on the 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Rifu-cho, Miyagi Prefecture. Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura also appeared, performing an otherworldly collaboration on the ice rink. He offered prayers for the disaster area with a dance of requiem. The following is what Hanyu said in an interview after the show.

 

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"SEIMEI" is at full power more than usual

＜This will be the third Notte Stellata event since 2023＞

　Anyway, I used up all my energy and willpower, to the point that I wondered if today was the last day. I didn't lose my spirit for even a moment, and I skated while praying and hoping that all the members skating at this venue would be able to do something about 3/11 (the day the Great East Japan Earthquake occurred) and various disasters, even if it was just a little, and that it would become a catalyst for something.

 

<Co-starring with Mansai Nomura>

I was incredibly nervous. Especially for SEIMEI, I felt this constant sense of dignity and weight behind me. There was this immense pressure not to make a single mistake—it almost felt like I was skating at the Olympics again.

 

As for Bolero (Mansai-san's signature piece MANSAI Bolero), it's a piece I’ve never skated to before. In figure skating, Bolero is legendary because of the iconic ice dance performances associated with it. Even Shay (choreographer Shae-Lynn Bourne) mentioned how difficult it was. But we incorporated Mansai-san’s Bolero elements, adding various gestures and movements unique to this collaboration. I really feel like we created a version of Bolero that could only exist in this performance.

 

<You worked with Nomura Mansai for the first time in 10 years (since your interview). Has your image of him changed?>

　I feel like he opened up to me a little bit (laughs). I think it was about 10 years ago, but I felt so intimidated and just nervous. I felt like I was like a dry sponge, like I couldn't absorb anything because I didn't have the capacity to do so, I was just so overwhelmed.

 

This time, having gained various experiences and engaged in many activities as a professional, I really made an effort to stand on the same stage and speak from the same level of understanding. I kept my focus sharp, ensuring that I could face this collaboration as a professional skater. That mindset carried through even in our discussions and rehearsals.

 

Of course, the choreography for Bolero gradually came together after the other skaters arrived. When we first showed it to Mansai-san, it was still far from complete. He even said something like, "So… what should we do?" (laughs). But as we kept running through it over and over in this venue, taking our time, he started adjusting to us in many ways. At the same time, I thought a lot about how I could match his movements and expressions. That’s how our Bolero took shape.

 

<When we asked Mansai-san about meeting you again after 10 years…>

 

(cutting in) He didn’t say I got cocky or anything, did he? (laughs)

 

<Mansai-san mentioned that there were many things about Onmyoji that even he had forgotten.>

 

Well, for us skaters—especially in my case—stepping firmly into the professional and artistic world has made me realize how much of a novice I still am.

Collaborating with someone who carries on the legacy of Japanese traditional performing arts, and is exceptional even within that world, is truly an honor. At the same time, it made me keenly aware that I needed to bring skating, and my artistry as a professional, to a level that would be worthy of standing alongside such a distinguished art form. I carried that feeling with me throughout rehearsals.

 

As for today’s performance… I’d give myself about 50 points (laughs). I was really nervous… yeah.

 

"It still feels like a dream."

<What do you think is the significance of performing with Mansai Nomura in this venue, at Notte Stellata?>

 

When considering collaborations for Notte Stellata, it’s never just about integrating something into figure skating. I always think about what kind of guest would elevate the show to a level where anyone watching—regardless of their background—would recognize it as something truly magnificent. That’s the discussion I have with the production team when planning the guest lineup.

 

From the very beginning, when we first launched Notte Stellata, I had talked about wanting to collaborate with Mansai-san someday. And knowing that Bolero carries the theme of requiem and rebirth, I felt it was something I absolutely had to do.

 

Now that it has actually happened, to be honest, it still feels a bit surreal, like I’m floating in a dream. But I do feel that, even just a little, I was able to shape the skating and the structure of the show into something worthy of embracing the presence of Nomura Mansai. That’s the sense of fulfillment I have—yes.

 

<How do you feel about doing a show at this time, including your thoughts about the disaster-stricken areas?>

 

Above all, there may have been people who purchased tickets but couldn’t attend due to illness. Others may have struggled with transportation issues, like the recent Tohoku Shinkansen connection troubles. And honestly, getting to Rifu itself isn’t the easiest. But despite all that, what matters most is that everyone who made the effort to come here is safe and well. Even those who weren’t able to attend in person but watched via streaming—just knowing that they’re out there makes us feel incredibly grateful.

 

Of course, we performers push ourselves to the limit, exhausting every bit of energy we have for these performances. And this time, I feel like that level of commitment has spread to the other skaters as well. Everyone gave their absolute all, more than ever before.

 

I don’t think there are many people in the world who could make Nomura Mansai run until he’s out of breath (laughs). I'm really honored by that. But Mansai really performed "SEIMEI" with all his might. How can I put it? Physically, I think we were all completely drained by the end. But when I saw the people who came to see it standing up and applauding and cheering, I felt that "Ah, they are truly here, alive in this space." And that’s something Notte Stellata makes me appreciate even more.

 

Just as we found the strength to rise after the disaster, I hope that this kind of bond keeps spreading, little by little.

 

During the rehearsal, Mansai-san was really out of breath. I thought, "This is a big deal" (laughs). He was running all the time at the end of "SEIMEI". I felt really sorry for him, but I was once again impressed by his ability, or rather his capacity, to respond to that.

 

(The host announces, "We're running out of time, so let's finish up...")

 

I talk too much. Sorry, sorry! (laughs)

 

<How did you plan to present "SEIMEI" with Nomura this time?>

 

Whenever I’ve performed SEIMEI in the past, I’ve always portrayed Abe no Seimei myself, using him as the motif for my skating. But this time, we had the Abe no Seimei himself—Nomura Mansai—on the ice. So instead, I took on the role of his servant, his shikigami (a spirit under his command), and we structured the performance with that dynamic in mind.

 

Because Seimei is a perfect yet enigmatic presence, the shikigami must act accordingly—it shouldn’t be perfect. Instead, it should move as one granted power by its master, embodying that bestowed strength. With that in mind, I skated SEIMEI with even more intensity than usual, almost at full power the entire time. My role was to receive the command, fulfill my duty, then return to being a mere paper doll, only to be summoned again by incantation—this cycle formed the narrative we imagined as we choreographed the performance.

 

It was a completely different experience from my usual SEIMEI. In a way, I found myself reflecting on the very idea of role—both in the performance and in my own life. Maybe it’s a bit of a stretch, but being part of Notte Stellata, being here, being alive… It made me question once again: What is my purpose in life?

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.07

 

 

Source: https://mainichi.jp/articles/20250307/k00/00m/050/333000c

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250307131323/https://the-ans.jp/news/511897/

 

"Yuzuru Hanyu's profession is becoming more and more accomplished" "I think he really loves being an onmyoji" [Question and answer session with Mansai Nomura]

 

The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata 2025", hosted by Yuzuru Hanyu, a professional skater who has won consecutive Olympic gold medals in figure skating, was held on the 7th at Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Miyagi. This year marks the third time the show has been held, and it will run for three days until the 9th. It sends out "hope" from Miyagi, an area affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. In addition to famous skaters from Japan and abroad gracing the ice, Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura appeared as a special guest.

 

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Ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata 2025"

　The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata 2025", hosted by Yuzuru Hanyu, a professional skater who has won consecutive Olympic gold medals in figure skating, was held on the 7th at Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Miyagi. This year marks the third time the show has been held, and it will run for three days until the 9th. It sends out "hope" from Miyagi, an area affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. In addition to famous skaters from Japan and abroad gracing the ice, Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura appeared as a special guest.

 

The performance started with Hanyu's "notte stellata". At the end of the first part, he performed a collaboration with Nomura, "MANSAI Bolero", and at the beginning of the second part, the two performed "SEIMEI". Below is a Q&A with Mansai Nomura after the performance.

 

-What was it like participating in the ice show?

"I could really feel the energy and enthusiasm of the audience in such a large venue. When so many living, breathing people come together like this, it creates an incredible atmosphere. Knowing that this venue, Sekisui Heim Super Arena, was used as a temporary morgue after the earthquake, I felt a deep sense of history—both the good and the painful. But being able to share this space and acknowledge that we are here, alive, was truly meaningful."

 

--What was it like performing MANSAI Bolero?

"At the beginning, I almost felt overwhelmed. It wasn’t quite a spiritual experience, but for a moment, I sensed the presence of many souls. It was as if something was weighing on me—perhaps the collective emotions of those gathered. As someone who practices Kyogen, I feel that bearing such emotions is part of my responsibility. This performance made me reflect once again on my role and purpose."

 

A new insight discovered through collaboration with figure skating

 

— You performed SEIMEI together.
"As we were creating the performance, I really felt just how much Hanyu loves Onmyoji. He might even be a bit of an otaku about it—he knows more than I do! (laughs) He even remembers things I’ve forgotten. At times, he would suggest, ‘This would make it feel even more like SEIMEI.’

 

Jokes aside, this is the iconic program that earned him an Olympic gold medal. Being able to take part in such an important piece is truly an honor. I’m also curious to see how the composition was perceived by the audience. Drawing the pentagram on the ice carried a certain meaning, a tribute of sorts. In that sense, I think the performance also connected to March 11 (the anniversary of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami). Being involved in both of these works has been a great privilege."

 

— Did you make any interesting discoveries while collaborating with figure skating? Was anything different from what you expected?
"While working on the composition, there were moments when Hanyu and I would alternate our performances, switching places. There were times when, at a break in the music, I instinctively wanted to move forward with a sharp ‘snap,’ but I realized—‘Ah, I see’—that in skating, you can’t immediately transition into a movement. You first need to build momentum. That required a slight pause, which was an interesting discovery for me.

 

On solid ground, you can move instantly with a swift step, but on the ice, you need that extra push—a stroke—before you can truly take off. That slight time lag was something new and fascinating to experience."

 

— How did you bridge that gap in movement?
"I adjusted by making my exits a bit more dramatic. But honestly, working with Yuzuru Hanyu this time reminded me of something I once said in a past conversation with him: I spoke about how performers control ‘heaven, earth, and man,’ manipulating space, time, and music. Watching Hanyu take on the roles of producer and director for his ice shows, I felt like he was truly embodying that concept—mastering the elements of space, time, and human presence. Seeing how much he has grown was incredibly reassuring and inspiring."

 

Thoughts on "Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu"

 

— Ten years have passed since then.
"Back then, when I spoke with him, he already carried a deep understanding within him, but it hadn't been put into words yet. But through my words and his experiences up until that point, he gradually broke out of his shell, and buds began to appear, and he is really starting to blossom now. I think that's a wonderful thing.

 

We all grow old, don't we? I'm very happy that the next generation is carrying on the will of the people. I myself have learned knowledge of Noh and Kyogen from my predecessors, and I think it's wonderful that he has received the thoughts I had from my experiences and created this wonderful show with the profound theme of remembrance.

 

I often think about this—when I first addressed him, I called him ‘Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu,’ because I myself go by ‘Profession: Mansai Nomura.’ I carry the weight of Japan’s cultural and traditional heritage as I live my life. In his own way, Hanyu also bears something immense on his shoulders.

 

In that sense, he is not just an individual but a public figure, someone whose work transcends personal endeavors. That is what makes him remarkable. His determination, creativity, and ability to take action—all of which extend beyond just skating—were truly embodied in this extraordinary show.

 

That’s why I believe ‘Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu’ will continue to accomplish great things. And for that, I am truly grateful."

 

— In a previous discussion with Hanyu, you mentioned that Japanese culture is one of ‘abbreviation.’ How did you incorporate that concept into Boléro?
"As we refined the piece, we stripped away excess elements—that was undeniably part of the process. In transforming it into a prayer, particularly one that resonates with the memory of the 3.11 disaster, we began by incorporating tangible imagery: ‘a child being lifted and seeking help,’ ‘flowers blooming even in hardship,’ ‘rain falling,’ ‘summer arriving.’ But as we worked, those tangible moments evolved into something more abstract—a depiction of the cycle of human life. From death, we return once more to life, and that transition is symbolized by the final jump in the performance.

 

To the audience, it may appear highly abstract, but if viewed with that perspective in mind, I believe it takes on a deeper significance. I truly hope we will have more opportunities to perform Boléro together in the future."

 

 

 

 

Source: https://the-ans.jp/news/512127/

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250307142739/https://the-ans.jp/news/512127/

 

"There is probably no one who can make Mansai Nomura run so hard that he runs out of breath (laughs)" Yuzuru Hanyu is emotional about the collaboration [Question and answer session]

 

The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata 2025", hosted by Yuzuru Hanyu, a professional skater who has won consecutive Olympic gold medals in figure skating, was held on the 7th at Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Miyagi. This year marks the third time the show has been held, and it will run for three days until the 9th. It sends out "hope" from Miyagi, an area affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. In addition to famous skaters from Japan and abroad gracing the ice, Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura appeared as a special guest.

 

  Reveal hidden contents

The performance started with Hanyu's "notte stellata". At the end of the first part, he performed a collaboration with Nomura, "MANSAI Bolero", and at the beginning of the second part, the two of them performed "SEIMEI". Below is a Q&A with Hanyu after the performance.

 

—After finishing the first day.

"Honestly... how do I put this? It felt like today was already the final performance. I gave everything—every ounce of physical and mental strength. I skated every moment without letting my focus slip, praying and hoping that, together with all the members here, we could do something meaningful, even in the smallest way, for those affected by 3.11 and other disasters."

 

—How was it performing with Mansai Nomura?

"I was incredibly nervous. Especially with SEIMEI, I constantly felt a sense of authority and presence behind me. There was this immense pressure that I absolutely couldn't make a mistake—it felt almost like I was at the Olympics again.

 

As for Boléro, it was a piece I had never performed with before. In the figure skating world, there’s that legendary ice dance performance, so I knew it would be incredibly challenging. The choreographer also mentioned how difficult it was. But we infused Nomura-san’s unique Boléro with various movements and gestures, creating something that could only be born from this collaboration. I really felt that."

 

—There are probably a lot of questions from everyone, so that’s all for the representative questions.

"Or maybe there aren’t any at all! (laughs)"

 

Impression of Mansai: "I feel like he opened up to me a little bit (laughs)."

 

—It’s been nearly 10 years with Mansai Nomura. Has your impression of him changed through this collaboration and choreography process?

"I feel like he’s opened up to me just a little bit (laughs). About 10 years ago, I remember feeling completely overwhelmed. I was just incredibly nervous the whole time—like a dry sponge that wanted to absorb everything but didn’t have the capacity to do so.

 

Back then, I was simply trying to keep up, but this time, after gaining various experiences and working professionally in different ways, I made a conscious effort to stand on the same ground, to see things from the same perspective as a fellow professional. I wanted to approach this collaboration with the mindset of a pro figure skater, making sure I could engage with him on an equal level during discussions and rehearsals.

 

Of course, with Boléro, the choreography was still coming together even after we arrived, and it continued evolving as the other skaters joined in. By the time Nomura-san saw it, it was still far from complete, so he was also like, ‘What should we do with this?’ But after spending so much time rehearsing in this arena—going through it again and again—he started adjusting to us in many ways, and I, in turn, put a lot of thought into how I could align my movements with his. That’s how our version of Boléro came to life."

 

—Nomura-san mentioned that he had forgotten parts of SEIMEI.

"As for me, ever since stepping fully into the professional world of performance and expression, I’ve felt like nothing more than a beginner. To collaborate with someone who has inherited and upheld the traditions of Japanese performing arts—especially someone of his caliber—is truly humbling. I felt a strong sense of responsibility to ensure that my skating, my artistry as a professional, was worthy of that collaboration. Throughout rehearsals, I carried that weight with me, which is why I’d give today’s performance about a 50 out of 100. I was really, really nervous, honestly."

 

—Nomura-san also said he was happy to see your growth.

"I’m still far from that level, but I’ll work hard for my next promotion!"

 

"I don't think there's anyone who can make Mansai Nomura run so hard that he gets out of breath (laughs)."

 

--What is the meaning of performing SEIMEI in this venue, at notte stellata?

"Of course, I deeply appreciate everyone I’ve collaborated with through 'notte stellata,' but when selecting guest performers, I never think solely about how they would fit within the framework of figure skating. Instead, I always ask myself: 'Who would bring a sense of dignity and prestige to the show? Who would make it a performance that anyone, regardless of background, could watch and say, "That was truly extraordinary"?' I have those discussions with the planning team every time.

 

From the very start, when we launched 'notte stellata,' I had always wanted to collaborate with Nomura Mansai. And considering that Boléro itself is a story of remembrance and rebirth, I felt this was something we absolutely had to do. Now that it has actually happened, to be honest, it still feels a little surreal—like I’m floating in a dream. But at the same time, I feel like we were able to create a show that could properly honor and embrace the presence of Nomura Mansai. That, at least, is the sense of accomplishment I have."

 

—What are your thoughts on being able to continuously perform this show in your hometown of Miyagi during this time of year, and doing so in good health?

"Of course, there may be people who bought tickets but were unable to come due to illness, and others who had trouble traveling because of issues with the Shinkansen. The venue in Rifu, Grande, isn't the most accessible place, so I imagine it wasn’t easy for many people to get here.

 

But even with those challenges, the fact that people make the effort to come, and that those who couldn’t attend in person are watching on streaming platforms like Hulu—it means the world to us. That alone makes us feel incredibly fortunate. We’re pouring every ounce of energy into these performances, to the point of exhaustion, and I can feel that same dedication spreading to the other skaters as well. They’ve been giving everything they have, thinking, ‘Wow, we’re really pushing ourselves to the limit here.’ I mean, how many people in the world can say they’ve made Nomura Mansai run to the point of breathlessness? (laughs)

 

It’s honestly humbling, but Mansai-san himself is also giving everything he has to embody SEIMEI. Physically speaking, we are definitely no longer in ‘perfect health’ at this point (laughs), but when we see the audience clapping, cheering, showing their presence and support—it reminds us that we’re all alive, right here, in this moment. And because this is 'notte stellata,' that feeling is even more profound. Just as we found the strength to stand back up after the earthquake, I hope that the connections between people—the bonds we share—will continue to expand through this show.

 

During rehearsals, I saw Nomura Mansai getting out of breath, and I thought, ‘Oh no, what have I done…’ (laughs). He was really sprinting at the end of SEIMEI, and honestly… I feel kind of bad about it. But at the same time, I am deeply moved and full of admiration for his incredible dedication and generosity in responding to that challenge."

 

—SEIMEI is one of your signature programs. What aspects did you focus on this time, and how did you approach performing it in a new way?

"Up until now, when I performed SEIMEI, I was always embodying the character of Abe no Seimei myself. But this time, the actual Seimei was right there on the ice.

So I envisioned myself as a servant or a shikigami—one who is summoned and given a role to fulfill. With this dynamic in mind, I structured my movements and the performance accordingly. The presence of the perfect and enigmatic Seimei meant that the shikigami, in contrast, had to move in a way that was not perfect—one that reflected a being given power rather than possessing it inherently. I kept that intention in my movements throughout the performance.

 

Compared to the usual SEIMEI program, this time I was skating with my full power from start to finish. I was constantly thinking about the role I had been given, carrying out that role, then being dismissed—like a paper doll, waiting to be imbued with purpose again, only to be summoned once more by an incantation. That’s the story Mansai-san and I imagined as we shaped this performance.

 

In a way, this SEIMEI felt very different from the version I had performed before. And perhaps, though it might sound like a stretch, it made me reflect on my own role in this show—on what it means for me to be part of 'notte stellata,' on what it means to be alive. It felt like I was being asked, once again, ‘What is my purpose in life?’"

 

[yuzurujenn]

  

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.07

 

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20250306-OHT1T51204.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250314082802/https://hochi.news/articles/20250306-OHT1T51204.html?page=1

 

Yuzuru Hanyu rehearses with all his heart and soul the day before, thinking of the disaster-stricken areas, and starting today in Miyagi with "Notte Stellata"

 

The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu Notete Stellata 2025," chaired by professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu (30), will be held for three days from the 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grande 21) in Miyagi. On the 6th, the day before the opening, Hanyu performed a passionate skate that was just like the real thing.

 

　He was full of energy from his morning practice. With six minutes to link in, he landed a quadruple toe loop, a quadruple toe loop-Euler-triple Salchow triple jump, and a quadruple Salchow-triple toe loop triple jump. In the collaborative program with special guest Kyogenshi Mansai Nomura (58), he continued brushing up his performance until the last minute, and showed a well-coordinated performance in the dress rehearsal.

 

　His whole being was overflowing with passion for this show. For Hanyu, skating in his hometown of Miyagi in March is of great significance. The 11th marks 14 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake. This is his third "Notte Stellata," which he has nurtured with care. He will be putting his soul into it and reflecting on the opening day.

 

Together with his trusted fellow skaters, he will light a warm light of hope. (Takagi Megumi)

 

 

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20250307-OHT1T51148.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250314082947/https://hochi.news/articles/20250307-OHT1T51148.html?page=1

 

Flower stand from Kenshi Yonezu at Yuzuru Hanyu's ice show

 

The ice show "Hanyu Yuzuru Notete Stellata 2025," hosted by professional figure skater Hanyu Yuzuru, will be held for three days from the 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grande 21) in Miyagi.

 

　On the first day of the concert on the 7th, a flower stand was delivered to the venue by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu. The two first appeared together in the music video for the opening theme song "BOW AND ARROW" for the TV anime "Medalist". After its release on the 5th, the video had been viewed over 4 million times as of 4pm on the 7th.

 

 

 

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20250307-OHT1T51234.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250307104839/https://hochi.news/articles/20250307-OHT1T51234.html?page=1

 

Yuzuru Hanyu: "Praying from my soul" "Notte Stellata" opens in Miyagi 14 years after the earthquake

 

The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu Notete Stellata 2025," hosted by professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu (30), opened on the 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grandi 21) in Miyagi. The 11th marks 14 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake. He sent out a message of hope from his hometown of Miyagi.

 

  Reveal hidden contents

Hanyu skated to the title number "Notte Stellata," kicking off the third show in three years. After the opening by all the skaters, he took the microphone on the ice. "The word Notte Stellata means 'a sky full of stars.' On March 11, 2011, the day when everyone lost and lost so many things, I looked up at the night sky and it was so beautiful. I can't say something as simple as that, like I got hope from those stars, but the memory of how beautiful it was is a very, very precious memory to me," he said to the audience, and continued.

 

　"So tiny and fleeting, yet somehow they seem to shine. We skaters here will each shine and perform to become that kind of star for all of you. There may be times when you feel lonely, at times painful, and you may become sad as you remember all sorts of things. But we are here, and we will skate with prayers from our souls for all, both those who have passed away and those who are still alive."

 

　This year, the special guest was the kyogen performer Mansai Nomura. Hanyu performed "Notte Stellata," "Bolero" and "SEIMEI" in collaboration with Mansai, "Haru Yo Koi" as the finale, and "Kibou no Uta" with all the other skaters in the finale. Following last year, Satoko Miyahara, Akiko Suzuki, Rika Hongo, Keiji Tanaka, Takahito Mura, Javier Fernandez, Jason Brown, Shae-Lynn Bourne, and Violetta Afanasieva will be performing. The show will run until the 9th.

 

 

 

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20250307-OHT1T51231.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250307140423/https://hochi.news/articles/20250307-OHT1T51231.html?page=1

 

Yuzuru Hanyu's first collaboration with Mansai Nomura is "SEIMEI" and "Bolero"...the venue erupts in excitement

 

The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu Notete Stellata 2025," hosted by professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu (30), opened on the 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grande 21) in Miyagi. The 11th marks 14 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake. He sent out a message of hope from his hometown of Miyagi.

 

  Reveal hidden contents

He performed two collaborative programs with special guest Mansai Nomura, who he performed with for the first time. The last part of the first half was "Bolero." Mansai's representative piece was performed with six skaters: Hanyu, Satoko Miyahara, Akiko Suzuki, Keiji Tanaka, Takahito Mura, and Shae-Lynn Bourne. Mansai performed on the stage in the center of the rink, and the skaters performed on the ice.

 

　"MANSAI Bolero," a fusion of Kyogen and Ravel's dance music, premiered in 2011. It is imbued with the meanings of "requiem" and "rebirth" for the earthquake disaster. This was the first time it was performed in Tohoku. Before the performance, Mansai said, "I have my own thoughts about the earthquake disaster. I would like to share those thoughts with Hanyu and create a worldview."

 

　The second half started with a six-minute practice session with Hanyu, and then they performed "SEIMEI," the gold medal routine from the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics. Hanyu skated to "SEIMEI," a free program that used the music from the movie "Onmyoji," starring Mansai, in the 2015-16 season.

 

　When the announcement of their joint performance was made, Hanyu said, "I want to make sure that we can fully express the meaning of having Mansai there." This is the program that brought the two of them together. Hanyu danced on the ice and Mansai went outside the rink, creating a worldview to the fullest. The venue was filled with excitement and cheers for a while as the two of them created a "chemical reaction."

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.07

 

 

Source: https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/07/kiji/20250307s00079000252000c.html

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250307105534/https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/07/kiji/20250307s00079000252000c.html

 

Yuzuru Hanyu and Mansai Nomura perform a dance of requiem "SEIMEI" "With prayers from the soul" at the restoration ice show in Miyagi

 

The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata 2025," hosted by Yuzuru Hanyu (30) , a professional figure skater and two-time Olympic champion, opened on the 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena in his hometown of Miyagi. This will be the third consecutive year the show has been held since 2023.

 

  Reveal hidden contents

He started off by dancing "Notte Stellata," then performed a collaboration number with special guest Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura (58). He performed "MANSAI Bolero x notte stellata" by Nomura and the other skaters, and "SEIMEI," his legendary free program from the PyeongChang Olympics, to express a heartfelt tribute to remembrance and resilience. For the finale, he skated to the piano piece "Haru yo, Koi" with great emotion.

 

　The title of the performance is "A Sky Full of Stars" in Italian. Hanyu, whose heart was saved by the starry sky he saw on the day of the Great East Japan Earthquake, which will be exactly 14 years on the 11th, once again delivered hope from his hometown this year. Hanyu said, "Sometimes it may be lonely, sometimes it may be painful, and you may feel sad as you remember all sorts of things. But we are here, and we will skate with prayers from our souls for all those who have passed away and those who are alive now." There will be three performances until the 9th.

 

 

 

 

Source: https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/07/kiji/20250307s00079000310000c.html

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250307142739/https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/07/kiji/20250307s00079000310000c.html

 

[Yuzuru Hanyu speaks (1)] "I was so nervous about the "SEIMEI" with Mansai Nomura that I thought it was the Olympics"

 

The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata 2025", hosted by Yuzuru Hanyu (30) , a professional figure skater and Olympic champion, opened on the 7th at his hometown Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Miyagi. He collaborated with special guest Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura (58) and performed the legendary program "SEIMEI", which was his free program from the Pyeongchang Olympics, filled with thoughts of requiem. The following is a Q&A session after the show.

 

  Reveal hidden contents

--Your third performance. How do you feel now that it's over?
　"I used up all my energy and willpower, to the point that today felt like the final performance. I made sure not to lose focus for even a moment, and I skated with the hope that, in some small way, we could create something meaningful—something that might serve as a reminder of 3.11 and other disasters, and perhaps inspire even the smallest of actions. I skated with those prayers in my heart."

 

　--What about performing with Mansai Nomura?

"I was really nervous. Especially with SEIMEI, I could constantly feel this incredible sense of authority behind me. The pressure of not being able to make a single mistake was immense—it honestly felt as nerve-wracking as the Olympics. And with Bolero, it was a piece I had never skated to before. As a figure skater, there are legendary ice dance performances to this music, so that alone carried its own weight. Even my choreographer, Shae, mentioned how difficult it was to interpret. But we infused Nomura-san’s Bolero with unique movements and gestures, creating something that could only exist in this collaboration. I truly feel we accomplished that."

 

　--You met Mansai Nomura for the first time in 10 years.
　"I feel like he opened up to me a little bit. About 10 years ago, I was really intimidated and just nervous. I was like a dry sponge, like I couldn't absorb anything because I didn't have the capacity to do so. I was just really overwhelmed. This time, though, I’ve gained a lot of experience and grown as a professional. I wanted to stand on equal footing, to meet him at eye level, and to engage as a professional skater with the same intensity. I kept that in mind throughout our discussions and rehearsals. With Bolero, the choreography only started taking shape after arriving here, once all the skaters had gathered. When Nomura-san first saw it, it was still very much unfinished, and even he was like, ‘So… what should we do with this?’ But as we spent countless hours rehearsing in this venue, he adjusted to us in many ways, and I, in turn, kept thinking about how I could match his movements. In the end, Bolero became what it is through that process, and I truly feel it was shaped by the collaboration itself.

 

 

 

 

Source: https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/07/kiji/20250307s00079000318000c.html

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250307144510/https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/07/kiji/20250307s00079000318000c.html

 

[Yuzuru Hanyu speaks (2)] Bolero with Mansai Nomura: "I definitely want to do a story of requiem and rebirth"

 

  Reveal hidden contents

　--It's been 10 years for Nomura Mansai too.

"Speaking for myself, even after stepping fully into the professional and expressive world of performance, I still feel like a complete novice. To collaborate with someone who has inherited and carried forward the rich traditions of Japanese performing arts—especially someone as exceptional as Nomura-san—feels incredibly humbling. It made me acutely aware that I had to bring a level of artistry and professionalism in my skating that would be worthy of such a collaboration.

 

Throughout rehearsals, I carried that responsibility with me. If I were to rate today’s performance… I’d say about 50 points. I was just so nervous.

 

(When told that Nomura was pleased with his growth)

No, I’m still far from that level. I will continue to devote myself to improving."

 

— What does it mean to have performed SEIMEI with Mansai Nomura at this venue, during notte stellata?
"Of course, all the collaborations we’ve done through notte stellata have been special. But I never think about collaboration solely in the context of figure skating. When planning guests for the show, I always ask myself: Who could bring a sense of prestige to the performance? Who would make this a show that anyone, no matter who they are, could recognize as extraordinary? I have these discussions with the planning team.

 

From the very beginning, when we launched notte stellata, we talked about wanting to collaborate with Nomura-san someday. One of those ideas was Bolero, especially because it represents a story of mourning and rebirth. I knew we had to make it happen.

 

Now that it has become a reality, to be honest, it still feels surreal—like I’m floating in a dream. But I do feel, at least to some extent, that I was able to create a performance and a show that could embrace the presence of Mansai Nomura. That is the sense of fulfillment I take away from this experience."

 

 

 

 

 

Source: https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/07/kiji/20250307s00079000319000c.html

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250307140837/https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/07/kiji/20250307s00079000319000c.html

 

[Yuzuru Hanyu speaks (3)] SEIMEI dream collaboration: "The image of a servant, a spirit, who serves the real Abe no Seimei"

 

  Reveal hidden contents

— How do you feel about being able to continue performing in your hometown, which was affected by the disaster? What are your thoughts on moving forward, including your feelings for the people in the affected areas?
"There may have been people who bought tickets but couldn’t attend due to health reasons. Others may have faced difficulties getting here because of issues with the Shinkansen. And to begin with, Grande (Rifu) isn’t exactly the most accessible place, so I know it must have been tough for some. But even with all that, the fact that those who could come were here and healthy—and that even those who couldn’t were able to watch via Hulu or streaming—that alone fills me with so much happiness.

 

Of course, we skaters push ourselves to the very limit, exhausting every bit of our energy in our performances. But this time, I could feel that intensity spreading to the other skaters as well. They gave their all in a way I’ve never seen before—just completely pouring themselves into it. I mean, I don’t think many people have ever made Mansai Nomura run until he was out of breath (laughs). It’s humbling, really. But Nomura-san also gave his all, performing SEIMEI with such intensity and dedication.

Honestly, we were all physically drained, completely spent. But seeing the audience standing, applauding, cheering—it reminded me that they are here, alive, in this moment. And because of notte stellata, I was able to truly feel that again.

 

Just as we found the strength to stand up and move forward after the disaster, I hope that sense of connection—of bonds—continues to grow and spread.

 

Oh, and during rehearsals, when I saw Nomura-san struggling to catch his breath, I thought, ‘Oh no… I’ve really put him through something tough…’ (laughs) At the end of SEIMEI, he had to keep dashing across the stage, and I felt bad for making him do that. But even then, he rose to the challenge, and once again, I was just in awe of his strength and presence."

 

— When performing SEIMEI this time, what aspects did you focus on? How did you interpret this iconic program in this performance?
"Normally, when I skate SEIMEI, I embody Abe no Seimei himself—that’s the main concept. But this time, we had the actual Seimei (Nomura-san) present, which meant I had to take on a different role. I envisioned myself as his servant, or rather, his shikigami (spiritual familiar). We structured and directed the performance with this idea in mind. Since Seimei is a flawless, almost supernatural being, I had to ensure that my shikigami character reflected that contrast—imperfect, yet imbued with power granted by him.

 

Because of that, I found myself skating with full power from start to finish—more than I ever have before in SEIMEI. I was given a role, I performed it, then returned to being an inanimate paper doll. And when called upon again, I was reanimated to fulfill my duty once more. That cycle became a central part of the story Nomura-san and I built together in our performance.

 

It felt completely different from any SEIMEI I’ve ever skated. In a way, it made me reflect on something deeper—on roles, on purpose. It might be a bit of a stretch, but as I performed, I couldn’t help but think: What is the role I am meant to play in this ice show? What is the purpose of my existence? This performance made me confront those questions in a way I never had before."

 

(As the interview wrapped up)

 

"Sorry, I talked for so long! Thank you so much. This kind of reminded me of NHK Trophy, when I just kept talking and talking until they finally said, ‘That’s all the time we have.’ (laughs) Thank you for always listening to my long talks. I look forward to working with you again. Thank you very much."

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.08

 

 

Source: https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/08/kiji/20250308s00079000080000c.html

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250312221519/https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/08/kiji/20250308s00079000080000c.html

 

[Mansai Nomura, passionate speech (1)] Dream collaboration with Hanyu: "He really loves Onmyoji" "He's grown into someone reliable"

 

The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata 2025", hosted by Yuzuru Hanyu (30) , a professional figure skater and Olympic champion, opened on the 7th at his hometown Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Miyagi. He collaborated with special guest Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura (58) and performed the legendary program "SEIMEI", which was his free program from the Pyeongchang Olympics, filled with thoughts of requiem. The following is a Q&A with Nomura after the show.

 

  Reveal hidden contents

――Participating in your first ice show.
"I could really feel the energy and enthusiasm of the audience in such a large venue. When so many living people gather, the atmosphere becomes incredibly lively. At the same time, I couldn't help but think about how this place once served as a morgue. But regardless of the good or bad aspects of history, we must acknowledge and carry these things with us. The fact that we could share our existence in this way made this event truly special."

 

――Performing "MANSAI Bolero" at this venue.
"Yes, at the beginning, I almost became overwhelmed with emotion. It wasn’t exactly a spiritual experience, but for a moment, I felt as if I was being enveloped by something—perhaps the presence of many souls. In a way, carrying such things is part of the responsibility of those involved in Kyogen. This experience made me reconsider the significance of this place and my own mission."

 

――"SEIMEI" is a special program for both of you.
"Absolutely. As we worked on it, I could truly see how much Hanyu-san loves Onmyoji. He might even be a bit of an Onmyoji fanatic—he knows more than I do and even remembers details I've forgotten. He would suggest things, saying, ‘This would make it feel more like Seimei.’ Even when I had forgotten certain aspects, he still remembered them.

Jokes aside, this program is his masterpiece, the one that won him an Olympic gold medal. To be involved in such an important program is a great honor for me. I’m curious how the overall structure of the performance came across to the audience. The act of tracing a pentagram onto the ice rink is also a way of expressing something meaningful. In that sense, I believe this program connects to the memory of March 11. The entire show carried that theme, and I am deeply honored to have been part of two of its performances."

 

――Have you made any interesting discoveries in your collaboration with figure skating?
"Yes. While working on the performance structure, I noticed something fascinating when Hanyu-san and I took turns performing. Ideally, I would like to move sharply in sync with the music, but in figure skating, you can't just start moving instantly—you need a preparatory motion to gain initial momentum. That slight delay was an eye-opener for me. Unlike performing on solid ground, where you can move immediately, on ice, you have to push off first, which creates a small but noticeable time lag. That was quite new to me."

 

――How did you fill in that gap?
"We used effects like smoke and made my exits a bit more dramatic. But more importantly, working with Hanyu Yuzuru on this project reminded me of our previous discussion. In today's performance of 'SEIMEI,' we incorporated the concept of 'Heaven, Earth, and Man'. It really brought back memories of the conversation we had back then, where I spoke about controlling heaven, earth and man, or manipulating space and time, and being enveloped in music. As Hanyu now produces and directs various ice shows, he truly does control heaven, earth and man, and in that sense, it's very encouraging to see how he's grown."

 

 

 

 

Source: https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/08/kiji/20250308s00079000082000c.html

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250308014339/https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/03/08/kiji/20250308s00079000082000c.html

 

[Mansai Nomura, passionate speech (2)] Expectations for "profession: Hanyu Yuzuru" "He has broken out of his shell, buds have appeared, and he is blossoming"

 

  Reveal hidden contents

――he "SEIMEI" program is now in its 10th year.
"I’m truly pleased to see his growth. Back then, all these ideas were already within him, but they hadn’t yet been fully articulated. Over time, through various experiences—including, perhaps, some of the words I shared—he has gradually broken out of his shell. A seed has sprouted, and now it is in full bloom. That thought alone is truly wonderful.

We, of course, continue to grow older, but it’s incredibly gratifying to see the next generation carry on different aspirations and intentions. Just as I inherited knowledge and experiences of Noh and Kyogen from my predecessors, he has taken in certain thoughts and feelings from me and transformed them into this magnificent show. Moreover, the overarching theme of "requiem" adds even greater significance to it.

Listening to his closing remarks, I was reminded of how I initially introduced him as 'Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu,' just as I introduce myself as 'Profession: Mansai Nomura.' Today, I felt once again that I, too, live my life carrying the weight of Japanese culture and tradition. Hanyu-san, in his own way, carries something immense as well. In that sense, he is no longer just an individual but a public figure—a person who transcends personal endeavors. That’s what makes him truly remarkable.
His vision, determination, and actions extend far beyond skating, and this show is a testament to that. It encapsulated everything about him. I have no doubt that 'Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu' will continue to accomplish even greater things. That is something I deeply appreciate and look forward to."

 

――In a previous discussion, you mentioned the concept of “culture of omission.” How did that influence this performance of "Bolero"?

"Yes, as we developed 'Bolero,' we continuously refined and stripped it down to its essence. Originally, it was rooted in the Noh and Kyogen traditions of Okina and Sanbaso, but in the process of transforming it into a prayer—especially in connection with March 11 (the Great East Japan Earthquake)—we incorporated specific imagery.

 

For instance, we considered depicting a person lifting a child in distress, conveying the message that even amidst hardship, flowers will bloom, rain will fall, and summer will come again. While these were concrete images at first, we gradually abstracted them into a broader conceptual narrative. Ultimately, the piece reflects a glimpse of human life itself—transitioning from death to a new leap into life, symbolized by the final jump of the performance.

 

To some, the piece may appear highly abstract, but viewing it with this perspective in mind might allow for a deeper, more meaningful experience. I truly hope we can continue performing 'Bolero' together in the future."

 

――Will Hanyu become a shikigami this time?
"In the creation of 'SEIMEI,' we explored the nature of our relationship within the performance. It begins with me dropping a human-shaped paper talisman, so of course, that symbolizes the summoning of a shikigami. Additionally, during my dance, he remained waiting in a composed manner. That particular staging choice was something that emerged after we arrived at the venue, it was an idea that took shape on the spot."

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.08

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51011.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250308203943/https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51011.html?page=1

 

Yuzuru Hanyu skates with prayer and soul, 14 years after the Great East Japan Earthquake "Notte Stellata" opens in Miyagi

 

The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu Notete Stellata 2025", hosted by professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu (30), opened on the 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grandi 21) in Miyagi. The 11th marks 14 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake. He sent out a message of hope from his hometown of Miyagi.

 

"Notte sellata" means a sky full of stars. At the opening, he took the microphone on the ice. "We skaters here will shine and perform to become stars for all of you. Sometimes it may be lonely, sometimes it may be hard, and you may feel sad as you remember all sorts of things. However, we are here, and we will skate with prayers from our souls for all those who have passed away and those who are still alive," he said to the 6,256 spectators.

 

 

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51012.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250308014238/https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51012.html?page=1

 

The Chemical Reaction of Yuzuru Hanyu and Mansai Nomura: Their Masterpiece "SEIMEI" and "Bolero" of "Requiem" and "Rebirth"

 

The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu Notete Stellata 2025," hosted by professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu (30), opened on the 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grande 21) in Miyagi.

 

  Reveal hidden contents

The chemistry between the two left the venue filled with excitement and excitement for a while. At the ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu Notete Stellata 2025," a dream collaboration between Hanyu and Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura (58) was realized.

 

　"I used up all my energy and willpower, to the point that I wondered if today was the final performance. I never lost my spirit for even a moment, and I skated with hope and prayer."

 

　Right from the very first day, Hanyu delivered his usual full-power skate.

 

　It was a clash of two serious acts. The second half started with Hanyu's six-minute practice, and then he went straight into "SEIMEI," the gold medal performance from the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics. The free program used the music from the movie "Onmyoji" starring Mansai, and skating skills and Kyogen art were combined in a new way. He thrilled the audience with two types of quadruple jumps, the Salchow and the Toe Loop, and created a worldview to the fullest.

 

"I was just incredibly nervous. I felt a certain dignity from behind me, and the pressure of not being able to make any mistakes. I was so nervous that I really wondered if I was in the Olympics."

 

　He turned professional in July 2022. That was also a source of tension.

 

　"Since I stepped firmly into the professional world, the world of expression, I feel that I am really just a novice," he said modestly. As for his idol, Mansai, he said, "He is someone who has inherited the traditional Japanese arts from generation to generation, and he is particularly outstanding among them. I need to have the skating that is appropriate for him, the artistry of a professional," and he was full of spirit from the rehearsal.

 

　At the end of the first half, they performed another collaborative program, "Bolero." Mansai performed his signature piece with six skaters - Hanyu, Miyahara Satoko, Suzuki Akiko, Tanaka Keiji, Mura Takahito, and Shae-Lynn Bourne - with great enthusiasm. Mansai danced on a special stage in the center of the rink, and the skaters danced on the ice. "MANSAI Bolero," which combines Kyogen with Ravel's dance music, premiered in 2011. The piece, which is imbued with the meanings of "requiem" and "rebirth," was a ray of hope for Tohoku, with many emotions thrown in. (Takagi Megumi)

 

 

 

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51014.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250314091839/https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51014.html?page=1

 

Yuzuru Hanyu and Mansai Nomura's "SEIMEI" was "so nerve-wracking I thought it was the Olympics" - full Q&A

 

The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu Notete Stellata 2025", led by professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu, opened on the 7th at Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grandi 21) in Miyagi. It has been 14 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake on the 11th. He sent out a message of hope from his hometown of Miyagi. He performed two collaborative pieces, "Bolero" and "SEIMEI", with special guest Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura, who he performed with for the first time. Below is a Q&A with Hanyu after the show.

 

  Reveal hidden contents

-After the first day of the third "Notte Stellata".

　"Anyway, I used up all my energy and willpower, to the point that today felt like the final performance. I never lost my spirit for even a moment, and I skated while praying that all the members skating at this venue would be able to do something, even if just a little, in response to the 3/11 disaster and other disasters, and that this would become a catalyst for something."

 

　-Co-starring with Nomura Mansai.

　"I was incredibly nervous. Especially when it came to 'SEIMEI', I always felt a certain dignity behind me, and with the pressure of not being able to make any mistakes, I was so nervous that I really did skate to the Olympics. Also, 'Bolero' is a piece I have never used before, and as a figure skater, there is a legendary ice dance performance to it. Shae, who choreographed it, said that it was very difficult, but as Mansai's Bolero, we also included various moves and gestures, and I felt that it was a 'Bolero' that could only be done by this collaboration."

 

--It's been 10 years since you last spoke with Mansai in 2015. Has your image of Mansai changed?

　"Somehow, I feel like he opened up to me a little bit (laughs). About 10 years ago, I felt so intimidated and just nervous. I was like a dry sponge, like I couldn't absorb anything because I didn't have the capacity to do so. I was just completely overwhelmed. But this time, because I have gained a lot of experience and been a professional, I want to stand on the same stage as him, speak from the same perspective, and be on the same level as him, and be fully alert and take on him as a professional skater. We had meetings with that in mind. Of course, the choreography for "Bolero" itself was gradually completed after the other skaters arrived. When Mansai saw it, it wasn't completely finished and he seemed unsure of what to do. But as we took our time going through it over and over again at this venue, Mansai often helped us out with the movements, and I think that "Bolero" was completed while thinking a lot about what kind of movements I should use to coordinate with Mansai."

 

　-Mansai mentioned that he had forgotten many details about SEIMEI.

　"For us skaters, and more specifically speaking for myself, I feel that since I stepped firmly into this professional world, this world of expression, I am still a novice. I felt it was an honor to collaborate with someone who has continued this traditional Japanese art form for generations, and who is particularly outstanding in that art, and I felt very strongly from the rehearsals that I needed to have the skating appropriate for this, the artistry of a professional. For now, I'd say my performance today was about 50 points. I was really nervous."

 

　-Mansai said, "I'm happy to see you growing up."

　"No, it's far from it. I'll keep on working hard."

 

　-At this venue, you will be performing your signature piece "SEIMEI" at "notte stellata" together with Mansai.

"Of course, this is true of the people I have collaborated with in 'notte sellata' up until now, but I don't just think about collaborating in figure skating. I always think about who would be a great collaborator or guest, and discuss guests with the planners. From the beginning of the launch of 'notte sellata', I have been talking about wanting to collaborate with Mansai someday. Also, I really wanted to do it, including the fact that 'Bolero' is a story of requiem and rebirth. Now that it has become a reality, it still feels a bit like a dream, but I feel like I have come a little closer to creating a skating and show that is worthy of accepting Mansai, Nomura Mansai. That is the sense of fulfillment I have."

 

　-How are you feeling about being able to continue performing in your hometown, which was hit by the disaster, and staying healthy at this time? What are your thoughts about moving forward? Please also share your feelings for the affected areas.

"There may have been people who bought tickets but couldn’t make it due to illness, or those who faced difficulties traveling, perhaps because of the Shinkansen issues. Grande, in Rifu, isn’t the most accessible location, so I know it must have been challenging.

 

But more than anything, before even considering our own performance, I want to say that the most important thing is for those who planned to come to be in good health. And even if they couldn’t attend, there are people watching through Hulu and other streaming platforms—that alone fills us with gratitude and happiness.

Of course, we push ourselves to the limit, exhausting every bit of energy we have in our performances. And this time, I feel like that energy, the determination to give everything in an ice show, has spread to the other skaters as well. Seeing how much effort everyone is putting in, giving their all, has been really inspiring.

 

Honestly, I don’t think many people have ever made Nomura Mansai run to the point of being out of breath. It feels almost too audacious, but still, Mansai-san threw himself fully into performing SEIMEI. Watching him commit so completely was truly incredible. Physically, we’re all beyond exhausted—probably far from being ‘healthy’ at this point. But seeing the audience standing, clapping, and cheering reminds us that they are truly present in this moment. That feeling—of being alive together in this space—is something I was able to experience again because of notte stellata.

 

Just as we found the strength to rise after the earthquake, I hope that sense of connection and unity continues to grow and spread.

 

During rehearsals, I saw Mansai-san completely out of breath, and I thought, ‘Oh no, I’ve really done something terrible here.’ He’s sprinting non-stop at the end of SEIMEI, and while I feel guilty about it, at the same time, I can’t help but deeply respect the sheer ability and generosity he brings to this performance. He truly has an incredible presence, and I admire him even more because of it."

 

　--What did you focus on in this production of "SEIMEI" and how were you able to perform the pieces that are considered your signature?

　

"Yes, normally when I perform SEIMEI, I embody the motif of Abe no Seimei myself as I skate. But this time, the actual Abe no Seimei appeared on the ice, and I was positioned more as his servant or shikigami. The composition and direction were designed with that in mind.

 

Because Seimei is a perfect and mysterious being, the shikigami must act as one—imperfect, in a sense, and moving as a being granted power rather than possessing it inherently. I kept that in mind as I skated, pouring in all my energy. Compared to my usual SEIMEI program, I felt like I was skating at full power the entire time.

It was as if I had been assigned a role, carried it out, then returned to being a paper doll, only to be reanimated again with another incantation—this cycle of being given and fulfilling a purpose. That was the story we imagined as we worked on the composition.

 

This SEIMEI felt very different from what I had performed before. In a way, it made me reflect on roles—not just within the performance, but on my own role in this notte stellata ice show and even in life itself. It felt as though I was being asked, once again, ‘What is the purpose of my existence?’"

 

　(Moderator: "Interview finished.")

 

　"Sorry. Sorry, I'm really sorry for talking so much. Thank you. It reminded me a little bit of when I was talking for a long time during the NHK Cup and then they said 'That's it.' Thank you for always listening. I look forward to the next time. Thank you."

 

 

 

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51015.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250314092504/https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51015.html?page=1

 

Mansai Nomura: "My profession, Yuzuru Hanyu, is becoming more and more accomplished" "Bolero" seems to be "overwhelming with emotion" Full Q&A

 

  Reveal hidden contents

- Participating in your first ice show.

"You could really feel the energy and enthusiasm of everyone in this large venue. When so many living, breathing people gather like this, the atmosphere becomes incredibly powerful. This place (Grande 21) was once a temporary morgue, and yet, here we are—carrying forward so many things, both good and bad, as a kind of legacy. I think it’s truly meaningful that we were able to share this experience while being aware of that history. It was a remarkable event."

 

- "MANSAI Bolero" was performed at this venue.

　"Yes, I was a little overwhelmed with emotion at first. When it started, for a moment, I felt, well, it wasn't a spiritual inspiration, but I felt something like the souls of everyone, or some kind of emotion coming over me. I felt like it was the mission of those involved in Kyogen to somehow shoulder such feelings, and it gave me a renewed sense of the place and my own mission."

 

　-The two of you performed "SEIMEI."　

"As we worked on this together, I really felt just how much Hanyu-san loves Onmyoji. He might be a bit of an otaku about it—he actually knows more than I do! (laughs) There were even details I had forgotten that he still remembered. He would suggest, ‘Wouldn’t it feel more like SEIMEI if we did it this way?’

Jokes aside, this is the program that earned him his historic gold medal, and I feel truly honored to have been involved with such an important piece. I’m also curious to see how the overall composition was received by everyone.

Drawing the pentagram on the ice carried a deeper meaning as well, connecting to something beyond just the performance itself. In that sense, I believe it became a program that also resonates with 3.11. Being part of not just one, but two works within this show has been a great honor for me."

 

― What did you discover through the collaboration with figure skating?
"Well, during the process of structuring the performance, when Hanyu-san and I took turns performing alternately, there were moments when I wanted to hit the exact timing with the music, but I realized that in skating, a performer can’t start moving instantly. Unlike on solid ground, where you can move right away, on ice, you need to take a stroke first to gain initial speed. That slight time lag was something new and interesting for me."

 

― How did you adjust for that difference?
"We used effects like smoke or made our exits more dramatic to smooth over those transitions. But really, working with Yuzuru Hanyu this time reminded me of something from a conversation we had before. Today, he started ‘SEIMEI’ with the theme of ‘Tenchi-jin’ (Heaven, Earth, and Man), which took me back to our past discussion where I talked about the control of heaven, earth, and man—about controlling space and time, and wearing music like a cloak. Seeing Hanyu-san now producing and directing ice shows, I truly feel that he has taken on the role of governing Tenchi-jin himself. In that sense, it’s incredibly reassuring to see how much he has grown."

 

― ‘SEIMEI’ is now in its 10th year. How do you see Hanyu-san’s growth?
"It makes me very happy. Back then (when we spoke in 2015), he already had so much within him, but it wasn’t fully verbalized yet. Over time, through various experiences—including, perhaps, some influence from my words—he gradually broke out of his shell, sprouted, and has now fully blossomed.

 

We all inevitably grow older, and the next generation carries on various wills and aspirations. That’s something I find truly wonderful. I, too, received knowledge and experiences from those before me in Noh and Kyogen, and I had my own thoughts on these arts. Hanyu-san has taken in those ideas and transformed them into a magnificent show, one that also carries the profound theme of remembrance and repose for souls. That, I believe, is truly remarkable.

 

Listening to his final remarks today, I recalled that at the beginning, I introduced him as ‘Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu.’ I say ‘Profession: Mansai Nomura’ for myself, as I see my life as one dedicated to carrying the weight of Japan’s traditional culture. And now, I see that he, too, carries something immense in his own way.

 

He is not just an individual performer—he is a public figure, someone who transcends personal endeavors. That is what makes him so extraordinary. His vision, determination, and actions extend far beyond skating, and they were all concentrated into this incredible show. I truly believe that ‘Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu’ will continue to accomplish great things. That is something I am deeply grateful for."

 

― In a past conversation with Hanyu-san, you mentioned that Japanese culture is one of "abbreviation." How did you apply this concept to "Boléro"?

"It's true that 'Bolero' was gradually stripped away as we tried various ways of creating it. It was originally based on the Sanbaso dance from Noh and Kyogen, but in the process of transforming it into a prayer for the Great East Japan Earthquake, I took concrete images such as lifting up a child and asking for help, or saying that flowers will bloom even in times of hardship, that rain will fall, and that summer will come, but I also made them more abstract concepts, and ultimately I think it gives the impression of a glimpse into the life of a human being, soaring from death to the next life, which leads to the final jump. So, when you watch it, it may seem very abstract, but if you watch it with that in mind, I think you'll see something special, so I hope we can continue performing 'Bolero' together again."

 

― Hanyu-san interpreted his role as a shikigami.

"As we developed ‘SEIMEI’ this time, we explored the nature of our relationship within the performance. It begins with me gently dropping a human-shaped paper talisman, which of course represents a shikigami. Even the moment when Hanyu-san remained poised in the background while I performed was an idea that emerged only after we arrived at the venue. That interpretation and execution evolved organically as we worked through the process."

 

[yuzurujenn]

2025.03.08

 

Source: https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2025/03/33e625342a25-figure-skating-icon-yuzuru-hanyu-commemorates-march-11-quake-in-ice-show.html

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250308014151/https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2025/03/33e625342a25-figure-skating-icon-yuzuru-hanyu-commemorates-march-11-quake-in-ice-show.html

 

Figure skating: Icon Yuzuru Hanyu commemorates March 11 quake in ice show

 

Japan's figure skating icon Yuzuru Hanyu performed his ice show on Friday in his native Miyagi Prefecture, commemorating the 14th anniversary of the devastating March 11 earthquake and tsunami that struck northeastern Japan.

 

The show at Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Rifu was staged for the third straight year. It is named "notte stellata," meaning starry night in Italian, in memory of the "ray of light" he saw in the sky as he left home for the evacuation center following the 2011 disaster.

 

"I skated praying this serves as a catalyst for us to do something on disasters, such as the one of March 11," said Hanyu, the first Asian to win a men's figure skating Olympic gold medal when he triumphed in Sochi in 2014.

 

The three-day event through Sunday commemorates the magnitude-9.0 quake and tsunami that claimed over 15,000 lives and ravaged Miyagi and neighboring Iwate and Fukushima prefectures, triggering a nuclear disaster.

 

The 30-year-old Hanyu performed to the composition "Seimei," which accompanied his free skate at the 2018 Games in Pyeongchang where he won his second Olympic gold, landing both his quad salchow and toe loop to captivate the crowd of 6,300.

 

Kyogen actor and 58-year-old Nomura Mansai, dressed as a yin-yang diviner, shared the stage with Hanyu.

 

Hanyu finished fourth in 2022 in Beijing before retiring from competition in July that year to turn professional, stating he "stopped wanting to be evaluated" by points but would seek new ways to express himself in skating exhibitions.

 

He became the first skater to perform solo at Tokyo Dome in February 2023 in a show attended by around 35,000 spectators.

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.08

 

Source: https://mainichi.jp/articles/20250308/k00/00m/050/048000c

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250308175046/https://mainichi.jp/articles/20250308/k00/00m/050/048000c

 

Mansai Nomura: "Hanyu is truly blossoming right now" - performing together in a show

 

　Ahead of the 14th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake, an ice show hosted by Yuzuru Hanyu (30), a professional skater who won two consecutive Winter Olympics gold medals in men's figure skating, opened on the 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Rifu-cho, Miyagi Prefecture. Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura also appeared and performed a collaboration of a different dimension on the rink. He offered prayers for the disaster area with a dance of requiem.

 

  Reveal hidden contents

The much anticipated joint performance between Hanyu and Nomura began with Nomura performing his signature piece "MANSAI Bolero" on a special stage set up in the center of the ice at the end of the first part, and at the start of the second part, Hanyu performed his signature program "SEIMEI" with Nomura. Nomura appeared dressed as Abe no Seimei, the star of the film "Onmyoji," and watched over the skating. After the first day's performance, Nomura gave an interview and shared his thoughts. The main points of his comments are as follows:

　<How did you feel about appearing in your first ice show?>

　As expected, you could feel the enthusiasm and energy of everyone in the large venue. When so many living people gather, it's really exciting. The fact that this place was a resting place (for victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake) is something that we all have, a kind of legacy. I think there are many things, both good and bad, but I thought it was a wonderful event in which we were able to accept those things and share the fact that we are alive.

 

　＜"MANSAI Bolero" was performed here＞

　Yes. I was a little overwhelmed with emotion at first. When something started, for a moment, I felt like I was feeling the souls of everyone, not like a spiritual inspiration. I felt like those feelings were coming over me. I felt like it was the mission of those involved in Noh and Kyogen to somehow shoulder such things. I was reminded of the importance of this place and my own mission.

 

<How do you feel about performing "SEIMEI," a piece that is special to both you and Hanyu?>

　During the production stage, I really felt that Hanyu-san loved (the movie) "Onmyoji." He may be a bit of a geek, but he knows more about it than I do (laughs). He even vaguely remembered things that I had forgotten. "On the contrary, doing it this way is more like SEIMEI." It seemed like he remembered even the parts that I had already forgotten.

　

Jokes aside, this is the song that won him the gold medal (at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, his second consecutive victory), which should be called his monumental achievement. I am very honored to have been involved in such an important song. In that sense, I am a little interested in how the composition was perceived by everyone, but in many ways, I think that writing the pentagram (of the talisman) on the skating rink also became a thought about something there. In that sense, I think it also became a song that connects to "3/11" (the day the Great East Japan Earthquake occurred). I feel that it was a great honor to have been involved in two works.

 

<Did you discover anything new through your collaboration with figure skating?>

　That's because, when we were working on the composition, there was a break in the sound when Hanyu and I were taking turns to perform. I wanted to go straight in, but skating isn't something you do immediately, and you need to prep a little to gain some initial speed, so that's why you need that "gap." I thought, "I see." Normally, when you're on the ground, you can move smoothly, but on the ice, you have to take another stroke before you can move, and it was refreshing to see that there was a little time lag.

 

　<How did you fill that gap?>

　We did things like putting out smoke (for the performance) and making our exits a little more showy. But, you know, I really remembered working with Yuzuru Hanyu this time, and when we had a talk before, I started "SEIMEI" today by chanting "Heaven, Earth, Man," and I remembered that in that talk I said, "I control heaven, earth, and man," "I control space and time," and "I wear music." It's true, as Hanyu produces and directs various ice shows now, he really does control "heaven, earth, and man." I felt that he was growing in that sense, and it was encouraging.

 

　<It's been 10 years since your conversation.>

　At that time, how should I put it, when he was talking to me, it was of course something that was inside him, but it hadn't been put into words yet, and it gradually broke out of its shell, and the buds sprouted, and it's really blossoming now, through my words and my experiences. I think that's wonderful. After all, we're all going to get older. I'm very happy that the next generation will carry on the will of the past.

 

　I think it's wonderful that he has taken the feelings I had, based on the knowledge and experience of Noh and Kyogen that I have inherited from my predecessors, and turned it into this wonderful show, with the main theme of memorializing the dead.

 

　"Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu," I called him at the beginning. After all, I call myself "Profession: Mansai Nomura." What I thought today was that I myself live with the Japanese culture and traditional culture on my back. And in his case, he is also carrying something very big on his back. In that sense, I think it's wonderful that he is a public figure, or a public person, and that he transcends the boundaries of mere individual activities.

 

　I think it was a wonderful show that really condensed his will, ideas, and drive that go beyond skating. So I think that "profession, Yuzuru Hanyu" will continue to achieve more and more of what he can do. I'm really grateful for that.

 

　<Was there anything you kept in mind when performing "MANSAI Bolero" together?>

　It is true that Bolero was stripped away more and more as it was created in various ways. So originally it was based on the "Sanbanso" (a traditional Japanese dance) of the Noh and Kyogen "Okina", but in the process of converting it into a prayer including "3/11", I specifically included images such as holding a child up and asking for help, or saying that flowers will bloom even in times of hardship, that rain will fall, and that summer will come. With images like these, I made it somewhat concrete, but made it into an abstract concept, and in the end it gave a glimpse of a human life, and then took another flight to the next life. It has the meaning of leading to the final jump. So, it may look very abstract when you watch it, but I think if you watch it with that in mind, you will see something special, so I hope we can continue to perform Bolero together.

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.08

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51368.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250308202200/https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51368.html?page=1

 

Yuzuru Hanyu: "I hope the circle of happiness spreads" - Day 2 of "NOTTE STELLATA"

 

The second day of the ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata 2025", led by professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu, was held on the 8th at Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grande 21) in Miyagi. The special guest, Kyogen actor Mansai Nomura, collaborated with Hanyu in performances of "Boléro" and "SEIMEI". From Miyagi, where the 14th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake will be marked on the 11th, they delivered a dance of remembrance.

 

After the finale, Hanyu took the microphone and addressed the audience:

 

"I think we have been able to share so much joy and happiness together in this way, but of course, there are still people here who are suffering. I would be delighted if everyone could find so much happiness that they could share these joyful memories, even just a little, with those who are struggling now. I also hope that this circle of happiness continues to expand across Japan and the world."

 

Before the performance, a practice session was opened to the public. From 3:10 PM, for 50 minutes, spectators filled the open stands, witnessing a level of focus and tension no different from an official competition practice. He effortlessly succeeded in two consecutive jumps of quadruple toe loop-Euler-triple Salchow, and two consecutive jumps of quadruple Salchow-triple toe loop, and then, unexpectedly, his next trajectory was a loop. His first attempt was a double, but on his second attempt, he immediately landed a beautiful quadruple loop with a tight axis.

 

The performances will continue until the 9th.

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.09

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51280.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250311031419/https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51280.html?page=1

 

Yuzuru Hanyu "May I become a source of hope" - Speaks on behalf of others as chairman of "Notte Stellata" on the second day

 

The second day of the ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu Notete Stellata 2025," led by professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu (30), took place on the 8th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grande 21) in Miyagi. The 11th marks 14 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake. At the opening, Hanyu spoke on behalf of the skaters as the leader.

 

　"The closer we get to March 11, the more painful and sad memories I come across. Also, to those in Ofunato and the Noto region, and to those currently suffering from disasters that could happen at any time, we will continue to pray that, even though our skating is all we have, we can somehow provide a little hope, help them forget those painful moments, even for a while, and that they can find beauty in what we do."

 

 

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51315.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250308211225/https://hochi.news/articles/20250308-OHT1T51315.html?page=1

 

Yuzuru Hanyu succeeds in quad loop at public practice, showing his professional pride and still mastering quad loops in his third year since switching to professional skating

 

　The second day of the ice show "Hanyu Yuzuru Notete Stellata 2025," hosted by professional figure skater Hanyu Yuzuru (30), was held on the 8th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grande 21) in Miyagi.

 

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　Yuzuru Hanyu (30) took the microphone and spoke after the finale of the ice show "Notte Stellata."

 

　"Please be so full of happiness that you can share your happy memories, even if just a little, with those who are currently suffering. I would be delighted if the circle of happiness spread throughout Japan and the world."

 

　Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura (58), who performed with Hanyu for the first time, praised him, saying, "It was a wonderful show that really condensed his will, ideas, and drive that go beyond his skating." Hanyu has been visiting disaster-stricken areas since his days as an athlete. Helping the disaster-stricken areas with his skating was the driving force behind his two consecutive Olympic victories. After turning professional in 2022, the scope of his activities has expanded. In September last year, he appeared in the "Noto Peninsula Reconstruction Support Charity Performance" and donated all of the proceeds.

 

He is training as a professional skater. The open practice on this day. From 3:10 pm for 50 minutes, the open stands were filled with spectators. The tension was the same as in the official practice for a competition. He jumped a triple loop and a flip as per his routine, getting used to it. He easily landed two consecutive jumps of quadruple toe loop-Euler-triple Salchow, and two consecutive jumps of quadruple Salchow-triple toe loop.

 

The next trajectory was a loop. The hall was abuzz. The first attempt was a double, but on the second attempt, he immediately succeeded in a quadruple loop with a tight axis. In the music video for "Bow and Arrow," in which he performed with singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu (33), he surprised fans with a quadruple Lutz. It's been three years since he last competed. Even now, he can perform four different types of quadruple jumps correctly and beautifully.

 

　Mansai returned to Tokyo after the premiere on the 7th, and performed in a Noh performance in the city the next afternoon. He returned to Miyagi by evening and completed the second day. "From the rehearsal onwards, I felt very strongly that I had to skate in a way that was appropriate for the occasion, and that I had to have the artistry of a professional," said Hanyu. It is his dedication to the "present" that gives off a radiance of hope. (Takagi Megumi)

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.09

 

Source: https://sportiva.shueisha.co.jp/clm/othersports/figure/2025/03/09/notte_stellata/

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250309035952/https://sportiva.shueisha.co.jp/clm/othersports/figure/2025/03/09/notte_stellata/

 

"Yuzuru Hanyu's Requiem Prayer in 'Notte Stellata' – creates a stir in the new world created with Mansai Nomura

 

"Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata" report

 

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[The long-awaited collaboration with Mansai Nomura]

 

"Anyway... I don't know, I felt like today was the final performance, I had used up all my energy and willpower."

 

　Yuzuru Hanyu begins to speak quietly and slowly.

 

"With unwavering focus every single moment, we skated in this arena as a team, praying and hoping that what we do could serve as a spark—something that could, in some way, contribute to those affected by 3.11 and other disasters."

 

　On the evening of March 7th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Miyagi Prefecture, Hanyu had just finished the first night of the ice show "Notte Stellata," for which he is the lead performer, and he spoke carefully, choosing his words accordingly.

 

Nearly 14 years have passed since the Great East Japan Earthquake. Having experienced the disaster himself in his hometown of Sendai, Hanyu launched Notte Stellata in 2023 with the hope of bringing smiles and a sense of hope to people. The show's title, meaning "starry night" in Italian, was inspired by the breathtakingly beautiful starry sky he saw in the pitch-dark city after the blackout following the earthquake.

 

For its third year, the show welcomed a special guest—Kyogen actor Mansai Nomura. Hanyu's iconic program SEIMEI features music from the film Onmyoji, in which Nomura played the lead role of Abe no Seimei. The two had first met for a discussion 10 years ago, and a collaboration with Nomura had been one of Hanyu’s long-held aspirations since the inception of Notte Stellata.

 

[New realm with the collaboration of Kyogen and figure skating]

 

The collaboration between figure skating and Kyogen took the audience to a new realm.

 

The two-act show opened with Notte Stellata, the same program Yuzuru Hanyu performed during the exhibition gala at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, where he won his gold medal. After the opening performance, Hanyu took the microphone and greeted the audience:

 

"Each of us skaters here will shine in our own way, and we hope to become stars for all of you through our performances."

 

Following his remarks, a dazzling lineup of both domestic and international skaters delivered passionate performances. The first act then reached a major highlight with a breathtaking moment—MANSAI Bolero, a piece that Mansai Nomura originally premiered in 2011, blending Kyogen and dance music as a tribute to remembrance and rebirth, was brought to life on the ice.

 

On a specially constructed stage within the skating rink, Mansai Nomura, dressed in a kariginu (traditional Heian-era attire), performed a mesmerizing dance. Surrounding the stage, six skaters—Yuzuru Hanyu, Shae-Lynn Bourne, Satoko Miyahara, Akiko Suzuki, Takahito Mura, and Keiji Tanaka—brought the performance to life on the ice.

 

As Nomura’s powerful foot stomps resonated, the music gradually intensified, and the dancers' movements became more dynamic. Then, at the climactic moment, Nomura and Hanyu leaped high into the air simultaneously. A stunned murmur swept through the arena, quickly followed by a standing ovation. The thunderous applause echoed for an extended time, refusing to fade.

 

The arena where the performance took place once served as a temporary morgue in the aftermath of the disaster. Reflecting on his performance, Mansai Nomura shared, "I was overwhelmed with emotion. At the beginning, for a brief moment—it wasn’t exactly a spiritual sensation—but I felt as if the souls of those who had passed were present, as if their thoughts were pressing upon me. Carrying such emotions, I feel, is part of my duty as a practitioner of Kyogen. This experience reaffirmed my own sense of purpose."

 

According to Nomura, the final leap in the performance symbolized “a transition from death to rebirth.” He abstracted various elements of life into conceptual movements, crafting a performance that "offers a glimpse into the human experience."

 

The fact that MANSAI Bolero was originally created in response to the 2011 earthquake and tsunami was one of the key reasons Hanyu was so eager to collaborate with Nomura. Reflecting on their rehearsals, Hanyu remarked, "I feel that this was a 'Bolero' that could only be realized through our collaboration."

 

"Now that it has actually happened, I still feel as if I’m floating in a dream. But I believe that, in both skating and show composition, I was able to create something that was worthy of embracing the presence of Mansai Nomura." Hanyu expressed his deep appreciation for the collaboration.

 

[Olympic-like tension]

 

At the beginning of the second act, Hanyu and Mansai performed their long-awaited collaboration on SEIMEI. Mansai took the stage dressed as Abe no Seimei from Onmyoji, calling forth Hanyu—his shikigami—with powerful chants such as “Ten, Chi, Jin” (Heaven, Earth, and Man) and “Appear, Yuzuru Hanyu.” The audience erupted in excitement at this dramatic introduction.

 

While Seimei Mansai danced around the rink in a ritualistic performance, Shikigami Hanyu glided across the ice with precision, executing a series of breathtaking high-difficulty jumps. As they performed, the rink illuminated with mystical pentagrams, completing the ceremonial seals as a tribute to the spirits.

 

"I was incredibly nervous," Hanyu admitted. "Especially for SEIMEI, I constantly felt Mansai’s presence behind me, his aura almost overwhelming. The pressure not to make a single mistake was immense—it felt as nerve-wracking as the Olympics."

 

Portraying a shikigami tasked with a divine role gave Hanyu a unique perspective during the performance.

 

"We built the structure of the piece around the idea that I was given a role to fulfill, and I had to execute it. It’s a different feeling from any SEIMEI performance I’ve done before. Maybe I’m overthinking it, but being part of notte stellata and even just existing in this moment made me reflect on my own purpose—what my role in life is."

 

Mansai, on the other hand, lightheartedly commented, "I could tell how much Hanyu really loves Onmyoji. Honestly, I think he might be a bit of an otaku—he knows more about it than I do!"

 

He also shared his admiration for how Hanyu had evolved since their first meeting a decade ago.

 

"Back then, I could sense something within him, but it was still unformed, not yet put into words. Over the years, through experience and maybe even through some of my words, that potential has finally broken free, sprouted, and now, it’s in full bloom."

 

When a reporter relayed Mansai’s praise, Hanyu humbly responded, "I still have a long way to go—I’ll keep striving." Yet, his expression also revealed a quiet confidence, as he added, "I’ve made sure to stay sharp, and as a professional skater, I approached this performance with everything I had."

 

[What Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu carries]

 

Despite it being only the first day, Hanyu’s opening words—"I have used up all my energy and willpower"—reflected his extraordinary dedication to notte stellata. This passion spread from him to the other skaters and even to Mansai.

 

"The other skaters also gave it their all, to the point that I was impressed by how much they were able to give it their all. I don’t think anyone has ever made Nomura Mansai run to the point of breathlessness before," Hanyu remarked with a mixture of awe and gratitude. "It’s truly humbling. Seeing Mansai throw himself fully into SEIMEI, responding with such incredible intensity, has deepened my respect for his skill and presence even more."

 

Hanyu poured his entire being into this performance, driven by a powerful sentiment.

 

"Seeing the audience stand, applaud, and cheer, I felt like they were truly alive in this moment. That’s something unique to notte stellata—it makes me realize the depth of that presence. Just as we found the strength to rise again after the earthquake, I hope that sense of connection continues to grow and spread."

 

Mansai, who refers to himself as "Profession: Nomura Mansai," described Hanyu in the same way: "Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu." He also noted, "He carries something truly immense on his shoulders. I believe he will continue to accomplish even greater things."

 

Because they are both accomplished in their own fields, they sense "something" in each other. Their dream collaboration will finally reach its final performance on March 9th.

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.09

 

Source: https://wedge.ismedia.jp/articles/-/36906

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250309120641/https://wedge.ismedia.jp/articles/-/36906

 

Figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu and Mansai Nomura's dream collaboration comes true! "SEIMEI" with prayers for the repose of the souls of the dead and recovery from the earthquake disaster, "Notte Stellata" for the third consecutive year

 

The ice show "Hanyu Yuzuru Notte Stellata", hosted by professional skater Hanyu Yuzuru, who won two consecutive Olympic gold medals in men's figure skating, was held from March 7th to 9th at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Rifu-cho, Miyagi Prefecture, and was open to the media on the 7th. It has been 14 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake, which Hanyu himself was affected by. The show, titled "The Sky Full of Stars," which Hanyu saw on the night of the earthquake, was held for the third consecutive year since he became a professional.

 

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　This time, the group performed with special guest Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura, and the group's representative program "SEIMEI," which has produced many legends such as the group's "MANSAI Bolero" and the two consecutive Olympic gold medals, included prayers of repose and hope. The group's thoughts are not limited to the disaster-stricken areas of their hometown. A corner was set up at the venue to sell local specialties from Ishikawa, where a charity performance was held in September last year in hopes of recovery.

 

A long-awaited collaboration with Mansai Nomura

 

"It felt like today was already the final performance—I’ve completely used up all my energy and willpower. That’s how much I stayed focused every single moment, skating with all the members here in this arena, praying and hoping that we could do something, however small, in response to 3.11 and other disasters, that we could become a spark for something greater."

 

There wasn’t a trace of exaggeration in Hanyu’s words as he reflected on the show.

 

From the very first moments, he glided across the ice with graceful control, enveloping the arena in a warm and serene atmosphere. Once again, he returned to the disaster-stricken region, bringing with him a carefully crafted program alongside skaters with whom he shares deep bonds from his competitive years.

 

The first half of the show quickly reached a stunning highlight.

 

At the center of the rink, a special stage had been set up for MANSAI Bolero, one of Mansai’s signature performances. With the resounding stomp of traditional Kyogen footwork, the piece began. Hanyu, dressed in traditional attire, joined the other skaters in embodying the spirit of Bolero, pouring his emotions into both his dance and his skating.

 

"Since the very beginning of notte stellata, I had always talked about wanting to collaborate with Mansai-san one day. Among the possibilities, I knew that Bolero was something I absolutely wanted to do—not only because of its artistic depth but because it is a story of both requiem and rebirth."

 

Hanyu first met Mansai ten years ago. Their conversation became a reality when Hanyu chose to skate to the soundtrack from the film Onmyoji, starring Mansai, for his free program SEIMEI in the 2015–16 season. Now, as a professional skater striving to deepen his artistry, this collaboration was not just a dream come true—it was a creation born from unwavering determination.

 

"Ever since I stepped fully into the world of professional skating and artistic expression, I’ve felt that I’m still just a novice. To collaborate with someone who has inherited the legacy of traditional Japanese performing arts, especially someone as exceptional as Mansai-san, is an immense honor. From rehearsals onward, I strongly felt that I needed to ensure my skating and artistry as a professional were worthy of this collaboration."

 

As Hanyu spoke, a hint of tension was visible in his expression. But Mansai saw that same determination as proof of his growth as an artist.

 

"When we first spoke ten years ago, I could tell he had something deep within him, but it hadn’t yet been put into words. Over time, through experience, that shell has broken, the seed has sprouted, and now I feel it has truly blossomed."

 

The young man who once stood at the threshold of his journey had since become an undisputed champion in the world of figure skating, winning back-to-back Olympic gold medals, and now stepping beyond competition into the world of pure artistic expression.

 

Performing MANSAI Bolero in a place deeply connected to the memories of the disaster made the experience even more profound for Mansai. He admitted, “At the beginning, I almost felt overwhelmed with emotion.”

 

A performance in which both the performers and the audience gave their all

 

In the second half of the show, a mesmerizing fusion of traditional performing arts and figure skating once again took center stage.

 

For the fans, it was a highly anticipated moment—Hanyu’s electrifying performance of SEIMEI in collaboration with Mansai. The pressure was immense as he took to the ice.

 

"I constantly felt a sense of authority looming behind me, and the weight of knowing I couldn't afford to make any mistakes. The pressure was so intense, I honestly felt like I was at the Olympics again."

 

From an elevated platform backstage, Mansai, portraying Abe no Seimei, commanded the performance, while Hanyu, embodying his shikigami, glided across the ice in perfect harmony.

 

Starting with a quadruple Salchow, followed by a quadruple toe loop-triple jump combination, Hanyu, guided by Mansai, delivered a highly polished performance in a high-stakes, one-shot event where mistakes were not an option, earning a standing ovation from the packed auditorium.

 

After the show, Hanyu appeared at the press conference and spoke about his thoughts on the disaster-stricken area.

 

"We are pushing our bodies to the limit, using up every ounce of energy as we perform. The level of commitment and the way we give our all in this ice show is something that has been spreading among the other skaters as well. They, too, have poured everything into their performances, to an extent that truly amazes me.

Of course, Mansai-san also gave his absolute best in performing 'SEIMEI.' Honestly, I don't even know how to put it into words. Seeing the audience stand up, applaud, and cheer made me realize once again how special 'Notte Stellata' truly is. Just as we were able to rise up after the earthquake, I hope that this sense of connection and solidarity continues to grow and spread."

 

A special corner was set up to sell local specialties from the disaster-stricken areas.

 

Hanyu's message not only delivered encouragement and strength to people through words but also through action. Before the show began, the audience responded to his sentiments by lining up to purchase specialty products from the disaster-stricken areas.

 

This time, as a continuation of the connection established through Hanyu's "Noto Peninsula Reconstruction Support Charity Performance Challenge" held in Kanazawa last September, stalls featuring Wajima lacquerware and seafood from Ishikawa and Wajima were also set up at the venue.

 

 

A woman in her 60s, whose natural rock seaweed quickly sold out, shared her experience of hardship. Her home was destroyed by the earthquake that struck Noto, and after relocating to temporary housing, she suffered further devastation when heavy rains triggered landslides that buried the area.

 

"Hanyu is supporting us, so we want to support him too," she said, expressing gratitude. "Many fans purchased our products, and people came from Tokyo and all over the country to attend the event. I’m truly thankful."

 

 

It’s not just the breathtaking performances or the worlds he creates on the ice. Hanyu’s deep empathy and integrity toward disaster-affected communities elevate the significance of Notte Stellata, especially as the anniversary of March 11 approaches.

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.10

 

Source: https://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/articles/-/336715

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250314110330/https://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/articles/-/336715

 

Akiko Suzuki, who performed with Mansai Nomura, said, "It felt like a sacred time" as she felt the resonance between Yuzuru Hanyu and Mansai Nomura.

 

It was a special "aura." The ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata", led by professional skater Yuzuru Hanyu (30), who achieved back-to-back Olympic gold medals in men's figure skating, concluded its final performance on March 9 at Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Miyagi. As March 11 marked 14 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake, professional skater Akiko Suzuki (39)—a two-time Olympian—shared her perspective with the press, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the world created by Hanyu's collaboration with Kyogen actor Mansai Nomura (58).

 

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All the performers delivered "prayer" and "hope." Now in its third year, most of the performers have been part of the show since its inaugural performance in 2023.

 

Reflecting on the event, Suzuki noted, "Everyone shared a deep understanding of the significance of this performance. Even without words, we were united in our determination to convey this message to the audience."

 

This year, a long-awaited collaboration between Hanyu and Nomura came to life. At the end of the first act, Nomura performed "MANSAI Bolero," one of his signature pieces. Suzuki described the challenges and profound impact of their joint performance:

 

"Hanyu and Mansai exchanged ideas, and as skaters performing alongside them, we faced challenges in synchronizing our movements. However, Mansai was incredibly adaptable. During the actual performance, there was a distinct moment when the atmosphere shifted—our concentration sharpened, and we could feel the sacredness of the moment."

 

Suzuki also observed Hanyu's deep respect for Nomura, particularly in his costume choice for "MANSAI Bolero", which featured large-sleeved attire:

"Handling those long sleeves must have been challenging, but I could see how Hanyu studied Mansai’s movements. Even the way the sleeves fluttered seemed meticulously calculated. His attention to detail reflected his deep respect for Mansai and his dedication to co-creating the performance."

 

At the beginning of the second act, Hanyu delivered a passionate performance of "SEIMEI," the legendary program he skated at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, set to the soundtrack of the movie Onmyoji, in which Nomura played the role of Abe no Seimei. "Even from up close, I could feel the depth of their dedication to the performance. Hanyu was completely focused, repeatedly checking his jump timing during rehearsals," she testified.

 

Hanyu was under immense pressure, more than anyone had anticipated. Suzuki recalled, "On opening night, as I was preparing for my turn, Hanyu came backstage after performing 'SEIMEI' and said, 'I was really nervous.' I think it must have taken a great deal of energy to perform jumps in that special atmosphere and with that pressure on his shoulders," she recalled.

As years pass, concerns grow over the fading memories of the Great East Japan Earthquake. This show holds profound meaning in keeping those memories alive.

 

"We want people to hold on to hope and continue moving forward. Through this performance, we hope that the skaters and audience members who receive this message will pass it on to someone else, creating a growing circle of support and resilience."

 

Through figure skating, they continue to send their heartfelt prayers and wishes to as many people as possible.

 

[yuzurujenn]

machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2025.03.10

 

Source: https://thedigestweb.com/topics_detail13/id=93393

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250310010438/https://thedigestweb.com/topics_detail13/id=93393

 

Yuzuru Hanyu asks himself, "What is the role of being alive?" In "notte stellata," he and Mansai Nomura depict a story of requiem and rebirth

 

At "notte stellata 2025," Yuzuru Hanyu showed off his achievements as an athlete and his training as a professional with a superb program.

 

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"notte stellata," held at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Miyagi from March 7 to 9, is an ice show that Hanyu has been hosting annually since 2023 as the chairman, and this year will be the third performance. "notte stellata," which means "a sky full of stars" in Italian, is the name of the program that Hanyu skated in the exhibition at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics, where he won consecutive gold medals, and also refers to the stars that shone in the dark night sky on March 11, 2011, when a power outage darkened the sky, and that Hanyu, who was affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, saw and felt hope.

 

　This year's special guest is Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura. As is well known, the legendary free program "SEIMEI" from the Pyeongchang Olympics uses a song from the movie "Onmyoji," in which Nomura starred. Hanyu had a conversation with Nomura in 2015 when he first skated to "SEIMEI" and was greatly influenced by him. From the beginning of "notte stellata," Hanyu had thought, "I want to collaborate with Mansai someday," and this performance has made his wish come true.

 

At the end of the first half, the first collaboration program, "MANSAI Bolero x notte stellata," was performed. "MANSAI Bolero" is a solo dance by Nomura that combines the Kyogen play "Sanbaso" with the ballet "Bolero" choreographed by Maurice Bejart. It is a popular work that premiered in December 2011, the year of the earthquake, with the meaning of "rebirth." Hanyu said, "I definitely wanted to do this, including the fact that 'Bolero' is a story of requiem and rebirth." Shae-Lynn Bourne, who choreographed "SEIMEI" and is also participating as a skater in this performance, was in charge of the choreography on the ice. Nomura on stage and the skaters on the rink performed together.

 

　As Hanyu mentioned in a post-show interview, Bolero is a special piece in figure skating, first skated to by Jane Torvill and Christopher Dean (Great Britain), who won the gold medal in ice dancing at the 1984 Sarajevo Olympics, and given perfect artistic marks by all the judges. Bourne, who was also an ice dancer, is said to have confided to Hanyu that it was "very difficult."

 

Hanyu reflected on the production process of "Bolero" in a press conference as follows:

 

"As we spent a lot of time going through it over and over again in this venue, Mansai helped me out a lot, and I also thought a lot about how I should coordinate my movements with Mansai, and that's how "Bolero" was created."

 

　During the actual performance, Nomura said, "I was almost overcome with emotion."

 

"When it started, it's not quite a spiritual intuition, but I felt like I could sense everyone's souls, or like their feelings were coming over me. I feel like it's the mission of those involved in Noh and Kyogen to shoulder such things."

 

　As Nomura danced on stage with the skaters in black, Hanyu appeared in a white and gold outfit. Hanyu skated in sync with Nomura, performing a sliding step-like movement reminiscent of a Kyogen performer, and finally jumped at the same timing as Nomura.

 

　Nomura explained about "Bolero," "Ultimately, it gives a glimpse into the life of a human being."

 

"It has the meaning of transitioning from death to the next life, which leads to the final jump."

 

The thoughts that Nomura put into "Bolero" after the earthquake and the respect that the skaters have merged to create a sublime program. The audience that filled the venue applauded the performers with thunderous applause.

 

Sekisui Heim Super Arena was once used as a morgue in the aftermath of the earthquake. During a press interview, Nomura shared his thoughts:

 

"In this vast venue, I could feel the energy and enthusiasm of the audience. When so many living people gather in one place, the atmosphere becomes incredibly vibrant. This place once served as a morgue, but in a way, everything we experience—whether good or bad—becomes part of our legacy. This event was remarkable because it allowed us to acknowledge and carry these memories while continuing to live."

 

The second half opened with SEIMEI, performed by Hanyu and Nomura. Hanyu first appeared in his training attire, going through a six-minute warm-up akin to a competition before stepping off the ice. Then, as the familiar introduction played, the performance began with Nomura on stage seemingly guiding Hanyu, who glided across the ice like a shikigami under the command of Abe no Seimei.

 

Having always performed SEIMEI as Abe no Seimei himself, Hanyu took on a different role in this show. He admitted, "I skated with the pressure of knowing that I absolutely could not make a mistake. Honestly, I felt as nervous as if I were at the Olympics."

 

"The role and feeling of SEIMEI were different this time. It might be a bit of a stretch to say this, but as I performed in notte stellata, I found myself reflecting on what it means for me to be here, to be alive. It felt as if I was being asked to reconsider my purpose."

 

Hanyu’s step sequence in the climax of the performance evoked memories of his triumphant moment at the PyeongChang Olympics. At the same time, it symbolized the journey he has walked as a professional, radiating an overwhelming brilliance.

 

As the performance concluded, a pentagram—the talismanic symbol used by Abe no Seimei for warding off evil—was illuminated on the ice. Nomura commented, "I think drawing the pentagram on the rink also became a way of thinking about what is there. In that sense, I think it became a piece that connects to 3.11."

 

After the first day, Hanyu exuded a sense of fulfillment.

 

"Seeing the people who came to watch standing up and applauding and cheering me on, I was reminded that 'we're alive here,' and it was only because of this 'notte stellata' that I was able to feel it again. I hope that this bond will continue to spread, just as we were able to stand up again after the earthquake disaster."

 

　Nomura, who inherits Japan's traditional performing arts, Hanyu, who continues to strive for greater heights as a professional, and the skaters who share the same dedication. With the audience reacting enthusiastically to their performances, 'notte stellata2025' became a supreme ice show that should be called a celebration of life. (Titles omitted in the text)

 

Interviewed and written by Satoko Sawada