The opening performance of Shochiku Grand Kabuki began on 7 July 2026 at 19 venues nationwide. The program featured the three-part bill of “Ame no Goro,” “Fujimusume” and “Sakana-ya Sōgorō,” along with formal greetings, and included a scene celebrating the naming ceremony.
On 7 July 2026, Shochiku Grand Kabuki opened its first performance at 19 venues nationwide. The opening performance provided a lavish start to the tour, captivating audiences with a program combining aragoto, characterized by boldness, and love-themed drama.
The naming ceremony celebrates the assumption of the name Eighth-generation Onoe Kikugoro (八代目尾上菊五郎), and began at Kabukiza in May 2025. The opening program began with “Ame no Goro,” in which Ainosuke (愛之助) is portrayed confronting the audience with a janome umbrella in hand. In “Fujimusume,” Kikugoro vividly portrayed the spirit of the wisteria.
“Sakana-ya Sōgorō” was performed last, with Kikugoro playing Sōgorō for the third time and receiving loud applause from the audience. The formal greetings began with remarks by Jakuemon (雀右衛門), followed by congratulatory addresses from Ainosuke (愛之助) and others, creating a warm atmosphere in the venue.
Performance information states that the production will run through Friday the 31st. QR codes for a manga-based play guide are displayed in the venue lobbies, allowing visitors to scan them before the performance or during the interval.