I directed the Southwark Playhouse Christmas family show, Usagi Yojimbo.
It ran until 4th January 2015.
17th Century Japan. A world of bandit racoons, feline ninjas and warring animal clans.
A young rabbit leaves home, family and friends behind him in pursuit of one ambition: to become a great samurai warrior. Trained by a maverick old lion sensei – a teacher of the warrior’s code known as Bushido – Usagi learns that the way of the samurai is one of peace and perfection – not just masterful swordsmanship. But as war engulfs the land, he must make a choice that will test his loyalty, honour and dearest friendship.
Reviews here
It also won the Off West Award for Costume Design and was nominated for the same awards for Best Choreography and Best Set Design.
Production shots by Richard Davenport.
Here’s a behind the scenes video!
Creative Team
Writer / Adapter: Stewart Melton
Designer (Set, Costume and Wigs): Ele Slade
Lighting Designer: Josh Pharo
Sound Designer: Max Pappenheim
Video and Projection Designer: Nina Dunn
Fight Director: Ronin Traynor
Composer: Joji Hirota
Stage Manager: Rhian Kennedy
Deputy Stage Manager: Lizzy Gethings
Assistant Director: Stephanie de Whalley
Cast
Amy Ip, Dai Tabuchi, Siu-Hun Li, Jonathan Raggett, Haruka Kuroda and Joji Hirota
Rehearsal photos taken by Bronwen Sharp:
Publicity Material
I took part in a podcast for GOSH Comics http://www.holdfastnetwork.com/process/6/11/2014/episode-6-usagi-yojimbo-onstage
And an interview for The Public Reviews http://www.thepublicreviews.com/interview-10-minutes-with-usagi-yojimbo-director-amy-draper/