Japan Performing Arts Network (JPASN) has launched the Performing Arts Supporters Club to support young small theatre companies and is seeking contributions starting at ¥1,000 per month. The aim is to reduce the risk of cancelled performances and ensure financial stability, with groups to receive support in fiscal 2027 invited to apply and selected for assistance.
Japan Performing Arts Network (JPASN) announced that it would launch a Supporters Club on 24 September 2026 to support the activities of small theatre companies, and is seeking monthly support through its support website. Support will focus on insurance coverage to reduce the risk of cancellations and hands-on assistance, with the aim of creating an environment in which young theatre companies can take on performances with confidence.
The Performing Arts Supporters Club will use membership fees of ¥1,000 for individuals and ¥5,000 for corporations to invite applications from JPASN full members and select the groups to receive support in fiscal 2027. Supporters will receive benefits including a monthly theatre newsletter and the opportunity to attend dress rehearsals of eligible productions.
The application and selection schedule currently envisages applications opening on 24 September 2026, an information session in January 2027, applications opening in February, selection notices being issued in April, and performances taking place from July onward. The initiative was prompted by efforts to understand the reality of performance cancellations due to the COVID-19 pandemic and infectious diseases, and is intended to create a system that ensures young theatre companies do not have to pursue their challenges in isolation.
Japan Performing Arts Network has appointed Noda Hideki (野田 秀樹), Ikeda Atsuro (池田 篤郎) and Yoshida Chiyoki (吉田 智誉樹) as representative directors. It was established in the early 2020s following requests for voluntary restraint, and currently operates as an information platform with more than 270 members. Its official website is listed on the JPASN site.