Fantasy Meets Action on Stage: Why "Peteru The Money Maker" Deserves Your Attention
I've been covering Nagoya's theater scene for years now, but I've got to say—there's nothing quite like what RE-act is doing with their "Peteru The Money Maker" series. Their latest installment, "Land of the Erased," hits Aichi Arts Center next month, and if you haven't experienced this unique theatrical phenomenon yet, now might be the perfect time to dive in.
What's Special About This Production?
RE-act’s ambitious project stands out in our local theater scene—a live-action fantasy series that unfolds on stage over several years. Conceived in 2022, the production premiered in 2023. Since its inception, this scrappy company has been diligently building its original fantasy world, episode by episode. It’s essentially “binge-worthy theater,” with each production adding another piece to a sprawling saga that won’t conclude until 2026.
It all started in RE-act's cozy BUFF Studio, where audiences were so close to the action that they could feel the breeze of the actors dashing past. The company, founded in 2009, has consistently pushed beyond traditional theater boundaries. They aren't just putting on plays—they're creating worlds people can step into.
A Story Worth Following
At the heart of this saga is Dabih (aka "Peteru"), a former princess turned outlaw with an impossible mission: collect 10 billion gold coins to reclaim her throne. But what started as a straightforward quest has evolved into something far richer, exploring themes of equality, friendship, and self-discovery along the way.
The upcoming "Land of the Erased" (Episodes 7-8 in the series) takes us to mysterious new territory as Dabih and her companions search for a cure for their friend Mer's strange affliction. Meanwhile, political intrigue unfolds back in Central, with the Poseidon clan making dangerous moves that seem targeted at our disguised heroine.
The production's intriguing blend of traditional Japanese elements with contemporary fantasy storytelling is a brilliant touch. For this installment, Kurakagi Iemoto from the Kudo School will perform traditional Japanese dance as the character Danab Hidley. Seeing centuries-old dance forms seamlessly incorporated into this modern fantasy world shows the creative risks RE-act takes that bigger theater companies often won't.
Breaking Down Barriers
As someone passionate about seeing Nagoya's international and Japanese communities connect, I'm particularly impressed by RE-act's efforts to reach across language barriers. While performances are in Japanese, the company is working to provide English subtitles for their Saturday evening show on June 7th. They've already released Episodes 1-2 on YouTube with English subtitles (with more translations in progress) and maintain an English Instagram account @peteruthemoneymaker to help international fans follow along.
After hearing from cast member Kevin (who plays Domi and manages the English translations), I'm convinced the team genuinely cares about sharing this uniquely Japanese theatrical experience with the international community. His perspective is that the goal is not just translating words but also the feeling of being there.
What to Expect When You Go
The move from their intimate studio space to Aichi Arts Center's Mini Hall represents a big step up for the production. Still, from what I've heard, they're determined to maintain the immersive quality that made earlier episodes so special. Prepare to be greeted by cast members as doors open, stage elements seamlessly blending into the audience space, and dynamic lighting and sound that envelops you, immersing you fully in the unfolding story.
One delightful surprise: unlike most Japanese theaters with strict "no photos" policies, you can purchase a special photography pass to capture the performance—a rare treat I wish more local productions would offer!
After each show, the cast makes themselves available for photos and conversation, creating an increasingly rare community feeling in larger productions. If you're comfortable in Japanese, don't miss the post-show talk on Sunday evening (June 8th at 18:00) for behind-the-scenes insights.
Is This For You?
Fans of anime, fantasy worlds, and stage combat will find something special in "Peteru." It's one thing to watch these stories on screen—it's another experience entirely when swords clash and characters battle mere meters from your seat. Don't worry if you haven't seen previous episodes–each installment tells its story while building the larger world. My first show was Episode 3, and while I missed some character backgrounds, I was hooked enough to go home and watch all the previous episodes on YouTube that same night.
I'm genuinely excited to see how this next chapter unfolds—and curious to hear what our international community thinks of this distinctly Japanese yet universally appealing theatrical experience. If you go, look for me in the audience—I'll be the one taking furious notes for my next review!
The Details
Peteru The Money Maker
"Land of the Erased"
Venue:
Aichi Prefectural Art Theater Mini Hall
Performance Dates
Thurs, June 5: 19:00~
Fri, June 6: 19:00~
Sat, June 7: 14:00~ / 19:00~
Sun, June 8: 11:00~ / 15:00~
Tickets
The performances run June 5-8 at various showtimes (evening shows at 19:00, plus afternoon performances on the weekend). Tickets are ¥5,500 for general admission and ¥4,000 for students, available through http://react.stores.jp.
Should you experience any confusion regarding ticket selection at checkout, be sure to choose: RE-act扱い予約"
Getting There
The Aichi Arts Center is conveniently located directly above Sakae Station. Take the Higashiyama or Meijo subway lines to Sakae Station, and use Exit 4 to reach the Arts Center. The Mini Hall is on floor B1—follow the signs or ask at the information desk. If you're driving, paid parking is available in the basement, though subway access is generally easier given the central location.
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#NagoyaTheater #PeteruTheMoneyMaker #JapaneseFantasy #StageAction #AichiArtsCenter #NagoyaInternational
#名古屋演劇 #金稼ぎのペテル #舞台アクション #愛知芸術文化センター #外国人向け #ファンタジー舞台
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