[Report] 818 The Story
Yay, I've finally got down to write the story report for 818!!
This is quite long (19 pages on Word!) and it is a very detailed description of the story. I left out my comments and thoughts because I wanted to report on the story itself, as it had a very nice plot and message. For my random thoughts, comments and many pictures, please read this post first to get a better image of what these characters look like and what the story is all about.
Please read the following report AFTER you read this post... it'll make it better, I promise!!
Just as a note, this is not the EXACT words from the show. I'm not a genius so I can't possibly remember every little line from the play or the VTRs. This is all that I remember from the shows I went to and it's just a general idea of the flow of the story, so PLEASE forgive me for that, haha. I wish I could remember every little detail, but unfortunately my brain is not built that way. The lyrics to "Sorezore no Kimi to" (theme song of 818) is accurate, however, since it was written on the pamphlet.
This show was a great combination of stage-VTR, VTR-stage and VTR-VTR, so I have indicated (stage) and (VTR) depending on which situation the character made his/her comments.
Alright, so... here's the story report (beware, it's long):
Shota Yasuda
hachi*ichi*hachi
Tokyo Globe-za (February 10, 2008 to February 20, 2008)
Osaka Kousei Nenkin Geijutsu Hall (February 23, 2008 to February 26, 2008)
STORYTELLER (stage) : Hello, everyone. Today, I want to tell you a little bit about my past. I ask you all… what do you think is the most precious thing in your life? For me, it is… yes, “encounters”… encounters with people.
To talk about some important encounters in my life, I want to introduce you to one boy who was at a loss as to what was important to him in life. He did not know what his dream was, and he had no clue what he should do in the future. He did, however, have an ambition to “take over the world!”
That boy, of course, was me when I was younger. I used to not listen to what people say, and I would hear things but let it go through my ears from right to left. I was such a troublesome boy.
One night, however, this boy met three street performers that would change his life forever. First one (click; red spotlight lights the side to the left) is the Musician. The second one (click; green spotlight lights the side to the right) is the Art Performer. Finally, the third one (click; blue spotlight lights the center) is the Dancer.
Of course, right now I am filthy rich and even own a house in Ashiya (*rich area in Hyogo; he said “Hayama” in the Tokyo shows). I am definitely not exaggerating when I say, that without meeting these three street performers, I would not have been this successful. These three helped me realize what my real dream was.
Oh, I almost forgot something very important… (takes out something from his jacket pocket) …yes, PANTSU. You see, I’m a pervert… who says I’m a pervert!! No, I’m not. Why don’t I just put that away… Anyway, the confused boy, three street performers and this PANTSU… What kind of story is this going to be? This happens on one chilly night… Now, please enjoy my story…
Rainbow time-machine effect for about 10 seconds
A BOY (stage) : Ohhh maaaan! What should I do! I came all the way to Tokyo but I don’t really have a dream, no money, no brilliant academic background and no connection… gosh!!
My mom used to tell me “If you at least try, you always do well! If you at least try, you always do well!” but… what do I have now? Nothing! …I always had this huge ambition to “take over the world and be #1!” but I really don’t know what to do!!
…Brr… it’s getting quite cold today… where’s my scarf, where’s my scarf… (looks into his bag and takes out his pantsu) ahhh, here it is, yes, yes! If I put this around my neck like this it will make me warm… OF COURSE IT’S NOT GONNA MAKE ME WARM!! (throws it to the ground) Oh, sorry! Pantsu! Please don’t hate me! You’re my only friend! I love you! (hugs the pantsu and puts it back in the bag) Where’s my scarf… ahhh, there it is. (puts on the scarf around his neck)
But man, it’s getting cold… What is going to happen to me!? I have no job, I have no money so I’ll probably not be able to pay rent and they’d kick me out… wait, I don’t want to end up sleeping on the side of the Yodo River (*famous river in Osaka) !!
I really have no idea what to do with my life… WHAT SHOULD I DOOOOOO!? (immediately links with the Opening VTR as the screen shows a headshot of the Boy screaming into the air with his arms spread out)
Opening VTR
Musician (stage) : There’s something missing from me… what is it…? I have a great guitar and gorgeous fingers… ahh, what am I missing…
Well, I guess I should practice the song again. (starts playing the guitar and hums the melody to "Sorezore no Kimi to" and messes up one of the chords) ...ahh, man... That should do for the day... (puts the guitar back and looks up at the crowd) Wow, I didn't notice that there were so many people on the street today watching me. If you have songs you want me to sing, you can tell me, you know.
(for a list of all the songs he sang, go here)
(after singing three or four songs) If you ever want to hear me sing again, you can always come back for more… I’ll be waiting for you. My sweet voice will make you melt.
(walks over to his side and sets his guitar down) Ahh… I could sing other people’s songs so well, but when it comes to my original songs… What is it that I’m missing…
VTR: A Boy meets the Musician
(A Boy is walking around and he stops in front of the Musician, who is holding his guitar)
Musician (VTR) : Do you want me to sing for you?
A Boy (VTR) : Really? You will?
Musician (VTR) : Sure. Anything you’d like.
A Boy (VTR) : Umm… do you have any recommendations?
Musician (VTR) : Hmm… anything.
A Boy (VTR) : Anything!? Hmm… then hip hop!
Musician (VTR) : Hip hop? No…
A Boy (VTR) : Oh, then reggae!
Musician (VTR) : Reggae? No…
A Boy (VTR) : Huh? Then enka!
Musician (VTR) : Can’t you see that I don’t look like the type that would sing songs like that? Geez.
A Boy (VTR) : Well, you said ‘anything’…
Musician (VTR) : I did, but… hey, if you’re just here to make fun of me or something, please go home.
A Boy (VTR) : I’m sorry…
Musician (VTR) : …What? What’s wrong?
A Boy (VTR) : I’m at a confused state right now… I just came to Tokyo and I really have a big ambition, but I don’t know what exactly it is that I should be doing… I don’t have any money, any connection, any dream…
Musician (VTR) : (starts looking at himself in the mirror and apparently has stopped listening to the boy whine)
A Boy (VTR) : People used to tell me that I could do things really well if I just tried, but… I really don’t know what I’m supposed to be doing, you know? I did do a little music myself! But that didn’t last long either… and… EHHHHHH! You weren’t listening!
Musician (VTR) : Yes I was!
A Boy (VTR) : Yeah, right! Then what did I just tell you?
Musician (VTR) : You were talking about… how you came all the way to Tokyo!
A Boy (VTR) : That was at the very beginning!
Musician (VTR) : Well, honestly, this is the first time I’ve met you… what am I supposed to say to something like that? I do music on the streets and I don’t even know what to do with my own life… You know, you probably don’t even have something that you really want to do. Looking for “nothing” is just going to hurt you. It will be different if you had something that makes you happy. …Sorry, I might have been too straight-forward…
A Boy (VTR) : Oh, no, please don’t worry about it.
Musician (VTR) : Do you want me to sing something?
A Boy (VTR) : Really? For me?
Musician (VTR) : Yeah, anything.
A Boy (VTR) : Then… to be able to find something that would make me happy… I want to hear a happy song!
Musician (stage) : A happy song? Something that makes him happy… hmm… will a song that makes him energetic be fine? I remember there was this one Kanjani song… ahh, Maruyama Ryuhei.
(picks up the guitar and walks to the center) If you know some cheers or something that go with this song, please feel free to do it. Alright, please listen. MAGIC WORD.
(plays MAGIC WORD)
Ahh, that was good. Music makes people feel better… Ahh… Music… is the best. (puts his hand on his hat like a good narcissist and that movement links back to the VTR)
A Boy (VTR) : That was nice! Thanks! …But you know, I already had energy.
Musician (VTR) : What?
A Boy (VTR) : Don’t you have any original songs? You know, not like copies of other people’s songs, but like songs that you made yourself.
Musician (VTR) : Uhh, well…
A Boy (VTR) : You don’t?
Musician (VTR) : I do, damn it!
A Boy (VTR) : Oh! Then I want to hear that!
Musician (VTR) : Really?
A Boy (VTR) : Yeah! Well if you can’t, it’s okay, but…
Musician (VTR) : Fine, I will then. …the hell, why is he so bossy… Here I go now. (plays and hums the melody to “Sorezore no Kimi to”) That’s all.
A Boy (VTR) : Hmm?? That’s it??
Musician (VTR) : Yeah? What?
A Boy (VTR) : No lyrics!? Where are your lyrics??
Musician (VTR) : Lyrics… I don’t have them yet.
A Boy (VTR) : What kind of lyrics are going to go with it?
Musician (VTR) : …That’s… not ready yet, either.
A Boy (VTR) : I see… Well, because it has no lyrics, the song is just o-kay…
Musician (VTR) : What??
A Boy (VTR) : No, I think it’s got a great melody! I mean, even an amateur like me can say that it’s a beautiful melody, but… without the lyrics I can’t really get a good idea of the song… Haa, I bet you just couldn’t come up with any lyrics!
Musician (VTR) : I am working on it! What the hell…
A Boy (VTR) : You gotta be able to write good lyrics, eh?
Musician (VTR) : Shut up… I’m letting you hear my songs for free and you end up making fun of me. Go away! Good bye.
A Boy (VTR) : I was being honest! What the hell to you, too… “it’ll be different if you had something that makes you happy” (imitating the Musician) Ha! See ya!! (runs away)
Musician (VTR) : What the hell that kid… A song that makes you happy, eh? …I think it’s got a great melody, but I guess it’s just o-kay without the lyrics… Haa… what is it that I’m missing…
VTR: A Boy sees the Art Performer
(A Boy is walking around again and he sees the Art Performer painting on a wall, and at the same time the Art Performer on stage shows up wiggling her butt in the dark, counting to see if she has all her paint and starts rolling the color white on the wall)
A Boy (VTR) : What the hell, that guy… “it’ll be different if you had something that makes you happy”… what does he know! (sees the Art Performer) Huh?
Art Performer (stage) : (turns around to face the crowd) Hi everyone <3 <3 <3 (squeaky tone) Hello <3 Hello <3 I am the OKAMA!! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiiiii <3 I see so many people and you must have come from many places! Where have you all come from? (this is when she chooses a few fans and asks them where they were from)
Wow, everyone came from so far away! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiii <3 Okay, now I have another question. Do you know what people are made from? (this is when she chooses a few fans and asks them what people are made from)
Okay, yes, people are made from LOVE <3 LOVE is very important <3 People can’t live without LOVE! The main theme of all my art is LOVE… and I want to draw you a character of LOVE I have created… it’s called LOPPY-chan; L-O-heart-P-P-Y, LOPPY-chan! Do you know why?? L-O-heart is LOVE and heart-P-P-Y is HAPPY! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiiii <3
Alright! Let’s start by drawing hearts, shall we!? Music… START!!!!! Clap your hands!!!! And let’s START!!!!!
First I’m going to use pink and draw a heart… and another heart… I’m going to add some holes in them because holes are important… we breathe through our mouth and nose, we listen with our ears… and yes, we COME OUT OF A “HOLE” WHEN WE ARE BORN, TOO!! KYAAAA!!!!! Mmmmm EXCITING!!!!!! (puts one leg up and hands to the back) Okayyyy now I’m drawing some wiggly worms with black… yeah… that’s it… ahhh… mmm… alright next is yellow and let’s use this THICK… yes… (drools)… THICK brush, shall we? Yeah… ohhhh… here I go and WOW!! (splashes tons of yellow on the wall) Ahhhhh… yeah… mhmmm… ECSTACY!!!!!!!! (thrusts hip) YEAH!!!! Oh, the paint is so cold!! Kyaaa!! Splash it all over me <3 <3 <3 Wait a second I’m supposed to be Do-S but I sound like a Do-M!! Hahaha oh well EXCITING!!!!! Kyaaaa <3 <3 <3
Hmm, I guess you’re all getting tired, huh? You can stop clapping if you’re going to sound like that! I can’t hear you!! Ohhh there you go, much better! Let’s turn up the volume shall we!? YEAHHHH!!! <3 <3 <3
Ahhh, yeah, that’s it, ahhh… no, I’m not doing this to relieve stress! Don’t get me wrong! Ahhh yeah, why don’t I use the black again, yeah, I’m going to draw an outline of the figure so tell me when you see it, okay? Say “I see it!” Okay!? Yeah… I’m going to add a nose, and let’s draw a little skull-chan here, too okay!! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiiii <3 Next is pink again, here, the pink in the mouth… wow this is light! Too light! Well, anyway, I’ll add a red too. How about white as well!!! Yeahhhhh this is too good!!!! Now with the orange, I’ll draw the hair… yeah… huh, wait a second, did I get shorter or something? It seems harder to reach the top… oh well, anyway, yeahhhh orange, like the fire!! Ahhh… do you know what goes well with orange? Yes, blue! I’ll add some blue here, here, here and KYAAAA!! So much fun <3 <3 <3
Alright (starts splashing randomly in the middle area of the drawing) I’m going to draw some hearts so once I start counting, you count with me, okay? Do you hear me!? Okay, here we go… One heart <3 (one heart!) Two hearts <3 (two hearts!) Three hearts <3 (three hearts!) Four hearts <3 (four hearts!) Five hearts <3 (five hearts!) Six hearts <3 (six hearts!) Seven hearts <3 (seven hearts!) Eight hearts <3 (eight hearts!) Alright!! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiiiiiii <3
You know, this is not the only thing I have… turn off the lights, shall we? (the eight hearts in fluorescent pink and the word LOVE in fluorescent green show up) See, LOVE!!!! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiiii <3 This is so good! LOVE is important!!!
You know, wall painting is just one thing I do. Oh, look, there’s a wagon full of goodies! Let’s see, there is a whole bunch of pens here… and a sketch book! These pens, I have 130 of them here, are all mine (*as in Shota’s). You know why I had to use my own pens? Yes, we didn’t have enough money to spend on pens! Yes!
And look what I have here… (holds up a watering pot shaped like an elephant) this is Lucky Ikeda-chan!!! (*see explanation on the 8.1.8 things post) Do you know what it does? (screen shows the crowd) Yes, it’s a camera!!! (starts going into the crowd and walking down the aisle) See, I’m a Do-S, so I hope you’re ready for… (shoves the camera into random fans’ faces) THIS!!!! Hahahaha isn’t it embarrassing!?!? Yeah, I BET!!!! Hahahaha this is so much fun!!!!
Hold on… (sniff sniff) what is this (sniff sniff)… I smell MEN!!!! I see MEN!!!! (shoves the camera into the ‘guys’ in the crowd, mostly Juniors or K8 members that were sitting there watching) Ahhh… mmm… you can take me, you know!!! Ahhhh… See, there were some girls touching my ass just now, but I don’t feel anything!!! I LOVE MEN!!!
Here we go… okay, can you all figure out what to do with this chord? (the chord for the camera) Yeah, that’s it, cooperate. We’re all in this together. Hi people on the second floor! You’re on camera too!! …But sorry, this doesn’t zoom, haha. Alright, here we go, that’s it… Okay, can you hold on to this for me? (gives camera to the person sitting in the first row center) Alright, here we go. (starts drawing something on the sketch book) What’s your name, honey? (asks the person holding the camera) Okay, let’s see… and what’s today’s date everyone? Alright, alright… okay I’m going to draw you a sketch using the numbers “8 1 8” okay here we go, tadaaa! (shows the picture on the camera of a face with 8 as the eyes and 1 as the nose and the fan’s name and date on it) Hiiiii applaud!!! <3 <3 <3 Thanks for holding the camera for me. If I rip this page out of the book fine, I’ll give it to you. (rips) Okay, here you go!
(jumps back on stage and puts the camera down… to show a great view of the crotch) Okay, hmm let’s see… what else could I draw. Hmm… what, what is it? What are you all laughing at? What… oh!! Dear goodness!! You are all such a pervert!!!! You wanna see my mysterious triangle!? Perverts!!! Anyway (leaves the camera there) hmm… I’m going to choose a seat number. XX-row, number XX!! Oh, you? Okay, what’s your name? Okay… I’ll write you a nice message… Okay (picks up the camera and shows the message) here you go, “Okama Otoko”!!! I’ll bring it to you so wait where you are! (runs out to give the drawing to the person)
Ahh, that was so much fun, wasn’t it? I love to draw!! I love it so much! But I sometimes stop and wonder if this is what I really want to draw, you know? Sometimes I get confused, but anyway! Drawing is fun and I love to draw for people and love to see their happy faces <3
A Boy (VTR) : Uhh, excuse me?
Art Performer (stage) : Oh, why, hello there. (lights go off on stage)
VTR: A Boy meets the Art Performer
A Boy (VTR) : Umm, can you draw something for me too?
Art Performer (VTR) : Do you want me to draw you? I’m not going to guarantee that it’s going to look like you!
A Boy (VTR) : That’s okay.
Art Performer (VTR) : Fine, then please sit here! (takes out a chair for the boy, sits down on her own chair and starts picking up some pens)
A Boy (VTR) : Umm…
Art Performer (VTR) : (smiles) Shut up.
A Boy (VTR) : I…
Art Performer (VTR) : Shut up.
A Boy (VTR) : Um, is my face really ugly?
Art Performer (VTR) : No, not really.
A Boy (VTR) : Then what is it?
Art Performer (VTR) : You know… I noticed while drawing your face… (puts finger to mouth and has a sexy face on)
A Boy (VTR) : What is it?
Art Performer (VTR) : (puts her face really close to the boy as if were to kiss him) We look alike. Our faces!
A Boy (VTR) : Eh?! Do we? (they both turn to face the camera)
Art Performer (VTR) : We have chimpanzee-like faces.
A Boy (VTR) : Haha, I get that a lot.
Art Performer (VTR) : Oh really, do you!? …Wait a minute, are you kocchi (okama) as well!?
A Boy (VTR) : Ha… haha… n-n-no, no I’m not…
Art Performer (VTR) : lalala (hums and proceeds with the drawing) Okay, I’m done! What do you think?
(image from the pamphlet)
A Boy (VTR) : Ohh, not bad! I kinda like it! Seriously!
Art Performer (VTR) : Really! Oh, please <3
A Boy (VTR) : No, really. I’m really happy… hey, how much do I owe you for this?
Art Performer (VTR) : Oh don’t worry about it, I’m not going to charge you.
A Boy (VTR) : No, but really! I will pay! How much?
Art Performer (stage) : (spotlight on the Art Performer on stage again) Okay, it’ll be 3 million yen <3
A Boy (VTR) : What?!
Art Performer (stage) : Haha, I’m just kidding, dear. I really don’t need any money; I just draw to see people be happy. But I’m still not sure what my real dream is… it’s like an imperfect combustion, you know? I’m studying many of the famous arts by famous artists as I keep searching for myself!
A Boy (VTR) : I see… oh hey, I like to draw too. Do you mind taking a look at a few of them?
Art Performer (stage) : No, go ahead, show me.
A Boy (VTR) : Okay. Where are they… (digs in his bag and starts taking out pantsu after pantsu)
Art Performer (stage) : Oh dear… what is it that you are holding!? Show me… show me… ahhhhhh let me smell it!!!! Come on, let me smell it!!!! Don’t be shy!! Ahhh!!!!
A Boy (VTR) : H-h-haha… well you see, I heard that warriors use to carry around extra pantsu and never wore the same thing because it’ll suck if that warrior loses the battle and they take his clothes off only to show his dirty pantsu, you know? That’s why I want to carry around clean pantsu as well.
Art Performer (stage) : Ahhh ahhh… haha, you are such a child; pantsu could be good dirty too you know!! Kyaaaa <3 <3
A Boy (VTR) : Ahh, there they are. (starts showing the drawings to the Art Performer) I’ve never “learned” art before, but I’ve always liked to draw… what do you think?
Art Performer (stage) : (whispers) These are really good… very unique…
A Boy (VTR) : What did you say?
Art Performer (stage) : Oh, no nothing. I guess they’re okay, but you would need to study a bit more. Remember; something original… the one and only thing in the world. This is what you should look for. If you don’t have this, I think you’re going to have a tough time.
A Boy (VTR) : Yeah, I see…
Art Performer (stage) : Well, you know! The famous Gogh only sold one painting while he was alive! So you should study just a bit more, that’s all.
A Boy (VTR) : I gotcha. I see… Hey, can you please draw me something encouraging?
Art Performer (stage) : Okay…
Art Performer (VTR) : (draws another picture) Here you go! (shows a picture with the words “Deaete Yokatta, Sorezore no Kimi to…” = “I’m glad to have met you, each of you…” with people holding hands in a circle)
A Boy (VTR) : Hmmm…
Art Performer (VTR) : What’s wrong?
A Boy (VTR) : Is this really something you want to draw?
Art Performer (VTR) : …What?? (sound effect for “shock!”)
A Boy (VTR) : Well, this is really hard to say, but… I feel like this is an imitation of someone else…
Art Performer (VTR) : …Whaaaat?? What the hell would YOU know!?
A Boy (VTR) : Well, I guess I know because I don’t know, you know I mean… Uhh, I like the words, though.
Art Performer (VTR) : (turns into a furious guy) YOU IDIOT KID!!!
A Boy (VTR) : Whoa!!! You’re a GUY!!!
Art Performer (VTR) : WHAT THE EFF WOULD YOU UNDERSTAND, EH!?!?
A Boy (VTR) : Uhh… uhh… oh, no, look! It’s the police!
Art Performer (VTR) : (back to the okama mode) Oh! What! Oh no! Oh!
A Boy (VTR) : (runs away and turns around) Hehe juuuuuust kidding!! Hehehe!!
Art Performer (VTR) : Ughhh!!!!
VTR: A Boy sees the Dancer
(A Boy is walking around talking to himself again and with a loud hip hop tune, he sees the Dancer walking with a boom box)
A Boy (VTR) : That was close… but what the hell is wrong with these guys!? “It’ll be different if you had something that makes you happy” (imitating the Musician), “something original… the one and only thing in the world” (imitating the Art Performer)… ugh!!! This is so irritating!!
Dancer (stage) : (Strides into view from the side entrance and walks up to the stairs, sits down and puts the boom box down. He starts to stretch and takes out a roll of tape, puts it around his wrist and rips it off with his teeth. He stretches a bit more, then stands up and jumps high in the air and on to the dance floor. He spins around a few times then puts the boom box on for the song to begin…)
DANCE
VTR: A Boy meets the Dancer
A Boy (VTR) : (claps) Wow, that was awesome!
Dancer (VTR) : Thanks. You know it! I’m eventually going to be a world-class dancer, so look out for me, eh? I’m not up to that level yet but I know I’m going to make it. …Hey, what’s wrong with you?
A Boy (VTR) : What made you want to become a break dancer?
Dancer (VTR) : Wow, that’s out of the blue. I like it, though. Well, break dance is cool, you know? And… well… hmm, what else… I guess it’s because it’s cool, that’s all.
A Boy (VTR) : I see…
Dancer (VTR) : You don’t think so?
A Boy (VTR) : Well, you see, I’m really at a confused state right now. I just came out to Tokyo, but I don’t have any money… no connection, no academic background, no dream… I really have no clue what I’m supposed to do! I guess Tokyo’s just too big for someone like me who’s from the countryside!
Dancer (VTR) : Countryside or not doesn’t matter.
A Boy (VTR) : Are you from around?
Dancer (VTR) : Uhh… yeah…
A Boy (VTR) : Hmm? No? What, are you from Osaka??
Dancer (VTR) : A%&#$...
A Boy (VTR) : What now??
Dancer (VTR) : Akita (with an accent)
A Boy (VTR) : …Haha! You’re from Akita? That was a thick accent.
Dancer (VTR) : I don’t have an accent! (still with an accent) Akita… Akita… (practices his accent over and over) Akita. Do you have anything to give me, eh?
A Boy (VTR) : Well, I don’t… but I do have an ambition!!
Dancer (VTR) : What is it?
A Boy (VTR) : It’s… to take over the world!
Dancer (VTR) : Haha, that’s quite nice, eh. It’s big! I like that.
A Boy (VTR) : Haha, yeah… well, I don’t know what to do, though…
Dancer (VTR) : What to do? Well… you know; music and rhythm are things you can’t see with your eyes. But, I think that dance is there to express those things that you can’t see. So… what I’m trying to say is, you should figure out what it is about yourself that you can’t see, and try to find something that expresses yourself. …Haha, I just said something pretty cool, didn’t I?
STORYTELLER (stage) : Hello. How have you liked the story so far? A boy who did not know what his dream was has met three street performers: the Musician, the Art Performer and the Dancer.
The messages that the three gave the boy: “something that makes you happy,” “something original... the one and only thing in the world,” and “something that expresses yourself.” Yes, these three key words started to give the boy an idea to his life… he saw a light through the dark, dark tunnel… Yes, (pats his pocket) with THIS.
Please continue to watch, as you see what happens to the boy…
Rainbow time-machine effect for about 10 seconds
A BOY (stage) : Something that expresses myself!? What does that supposed to mean? I’ve never thought of something like that, what the hell!! The three I met tonight… they pissed me off!! “It’ll be different if you find something that makes you happy” (imitating the Musician)… “something original… the one and only thing in the world!” (imitating the Art Performer) …Ugh, that was gross!! “If you can find something that expresses yourself, wouldn’t that be cool?” (imitating the Dancer and kinda mocking him) Geez, those three! Grrr!!
…Brrr, it’s still so cold… I must have brought my jacket with me… let’s see… (looks into his bag and takes out his pantsu) ahhh, here it is, yes, yes! If I wear it like this it will make me warm… OF COURSE IT’S NOT GONNA MAKE ME WARM!! (throws it to the ground)
(stares at the pantsu on the ground) …What, you want me to do that again? I’m not going to do that again! …Fine, just this one time, okay!? I’m pretty mad at you already!!
(stuffs the pantsu back in his bag and as he does this, he puts his head in the bag and talks as if he were the pantsu) “That’s fine with me! (squeaks)” What!? Did you just say that!? …Anyway… Brrr, it’s so cold… where is my jacket…let’s see… (looks into his bag and takes out his pantsu) ahhh, here it is, yes, yes! If I wear it like this it will make me warm… OF COURSE IT’S NOT GONNA MAKE ME WARM!! (throws it to the ground) No, I told you! I’m not doing it again!!! …What? …What!? You wanna fight!? I’m ready to fight you!! (walks over to the pantsu and flips it over) Ha! What’s up now!? …NO!! I’m not doing it anymore!! Why don’t you just stay there and freeze your ass off!! Yeah, I hope you catch a cold!! See ya!!! (walks away from the stage)
(spotlight is on the pantsu at the center of the stage)
…WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!! (distant screaming of the boy as he runs back and forth across the stage) WAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!! (backstage) oh man, I stepped on poop. Ugh!! WAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!! (comes out from the crowd and runs through the aisle back on the stage)
Pa… pa… pa… pa… (on his hands and knees as he stares at the pantsu on the ground) Pa… pa… (holds the pantsu up, puts it in front of his face and reveals his face to say) PANTSU YAN!!!! I found it!!! This is it!!!!! This must be the one and only thing that can express myself and make me happy!!!! Why didn’t I realize sooner, I’m such an idiot, idiot, idiot! (hits himself in the head) Ahhhhh I finally found it!!! (dances around, spins around and pose) Tetetetelelelele PANTSU YAN!!! I FOOOOOUND IT!!!! I FOOOOOUND IT!!!!! (raises his hand to his mouth, runs from the left to the right and screams to the crowd)
Yes!!! This is going to make me so happy!!!! It expresses myself and I don’t know of any other pantsu designer!!! This is something original!!! I can make one, two, three pantsu and can make it a three-pantsu set… yes, yes, yes!!!! Yay!!!! I FOUND MY DREAM AT LAST!!!! Kitaaaaaaa!!!! Chachalalaaaaa I’m a PANTSU DESIGNER YAN!!!! I’m gonna take over the world with PANTSU!!!! YES!!!!!!
VTR: The Encounter and a New Beginning
A Boy (VTR) : Yaaaay!! I found it!! Pantsu!! Pantsu!! I’m going to punch the world with pantsu, lalala!!!
Dancer (VTR) : Hey! Hey, yo! You’re sounding like a pervert, dancing around at night with pantsu in your hands!
A Boy (VTR) : I don’t care… pantsu!!! Pantsu!!! I’m going for the world with pantsu!!!
Dancer (VTR) : Oh will you just shut up! You’re not going to take over the world with pantsu!
A Boy (VTR) : (snuggles his face with the pantsu like a pervert) Ahhhh… pantsu…
Dancer (VTR) : Dude, calm down! You’re not going to be able to make money out of pantsu… I mean, come on, it’s pantsu!
A Boy (VTR) : I know! Hey, you’re the one who told me that I should find something that I could express myself with!
Dancer (VTR) : I did… but pantsu!? Come on!! You’re not going to make it!
A Boy (VTR) : Hey! Says who!?
Dancer (VTR) : Well, it’s quite obvious isn’t it!?
A Boy (VTR) : Oh shut up!! I’m hyper right now!! Aren’t YOU the one who should be looking for something to express yourself?? Honestly, your dance could be danced by anyone… you didn’t really express yourself too well!! Why don’t you try and dance so that you’ll move someone’s heart!!
Dancer (VTR) : …the hell!? &%&”$#%”$&%$%#&#&% (starts yelling at him in a heavy accent) Why don’t you give me some money, eh!?
A Boy (VTR) : I don’t have any money… but, I do have PANTSU!! Here you go!! (shoves the pantsu in the Dancer’s face)
Dancer (VTR) : …YOU!!!!!!!
A Boy (VTR) : Hehehe (runs away)
Dancer (VTR) : YOU!!!! (chases the boy… they run far and goes past the Art Performer)
Art Performer (VTR) : Hey!! It’s you!! Wait, I want to talk to you!!
Dancer (VTR) : Help me chase that kid!!!
Art Performer (VTR) : What?? Waaaaait!! (starts running with them)
A Boy (VTR) : (keeps running and comes to the Musician)
Musician (VTR) : Lalalala… (humming to the melody of “Sorezore no Kimi to”) Haaa… what am I missing…
A Boy (VTR) : Hey!! Hey!! I found something that would make me happy!! Here!! I got something for you, too!! (gives the Musician the drawing that the Art Performer gave him with the message “Deaete Yokatta, Sorezore no Kimi to…”) …Oh no, they’re coming!! Gotta go!! See ya!! Hehehehe!!
Dancer (VTR) : (the Dancer and the Art Performer, both out of breath, stops in front of the Musician as the three meet for the first time) Where did that kid go!? (still holding on to his pantsu)
Art Performer (VTR) : Oh!! What a cute pantsu you got there <3 <3 <3 (looks at the Musician, who’s looking at the drawing the boy gave him) Hey, I gave that boy that drawing…
Musician (VTR) : Yeah, he just gave it to me… He told me that it was something that made him happy…
Musician (stage) : Something that makes you happy… happiness… encounters… glad to have met you… This is it!!! I got it!!! I came up with the lyrics!!! (goes over to pick up his guitar)
…Please listen to this song. “Sorezore no Kimi to…”
Sorezore no Kimi to
written and composed by Shota Yasuda
(translated by: paaaaan)
Even though we’re not connected by blood
I am thankful for the necessity in which we met
To me, you are me; and to you, I am you
We bring our hands together and understand each other…
People repeat that kind of imagination over and over as we become one
In our limited life, we live on by loving each other
We capture happiness
Even though the world we lived or are living in are far away
(*he sometimes sang it "different" instead of "far away")
We could share happiness
To me, you are me; and to you, I am you
We bring our hands together and share a laugh with each other…
People repeat that kind of reality over and over as we become one
In our unlimited bonds, we get together and live
We build up happiness
The increasing wrinkles that appear every time we’re happy
The head we cool every time we’re mad
The tears that fall every time we’re sad
The energy we show every time we’re having fun
Everything has a meaning to me and it becomes the same Kidoairaku*
The fact that the each of you becomes happy leads to my happiness
My happiness will become each of your happiness…
That becomes my happiness again, and then…
People repeat that kind of ‘happiness chain’ over and over as we become a circle
In our unlimited encounters, we live on frantically
We share happiness
Happiness…
(*“Kidoairaku” stands for the four emotions:
Ki=Happy, Do=Mad, Ai=Sad and Raku=Fun)
Dancer (VTR) : That was cool.
Art Performer (VTR) : (claps) Yes!!! That was beautiful!!!
Musician (VTR) : Thanks… Actually, that kid told me off… the song was just o-kay because it didn’t have any lyrics. But, I finally came up with one, after I saw this drawing…
Art Performer (VTR) : Haha, I was told off by him, too. But… I guess somewhere in our minds, we knew what we were missing ourselves… and he just kind of pointed it out for us.
Dancer (VTR) : I hate to admit, but it was the same for me, too. He told me I wasn’t expressing myself well enough… but after hearing your song, I’ve promised myself that I will put more soul into my dances. Thanks a lot.
Musician (VTR) : Thanks… but this was thanks to her drawing…
Art Performer (VTR) : Mhmmm, thanks… you know, I’ve decided to put more thought into my drawings from now on as well.
Dancer (VTR) : Haha… this is kinda weird, eh…
Art Performer (VTR) : Yes it is… to have that kid make us realize something very important… Encounters are such a mystery, aren’t they? Hahaha <3
STORYTELLER (stage) : Hello, again. How was it? The confused boy found his dream through his encounters with the three street performers… and what did he end up with? Pantsu, haha. What a funny thing… But, even now, I am a rich man that succeeded as a pantsu designer.
The four people that were missing something met through fate… no, through necessity, and each found what they needed. They influenced each other… isn’t this what we call “encounters”?
I said I was going to tell just a little bit of my story, but it ended up being an hour and a half… I’m sorry about that. But, the fact that you and I met today… wouldn’t you think that’s another important encounter as well?
There’s just a little bit more to this story. If you don’t want to hear it, I’m just going to leave… (makes the fans say “I WANNA HEAR IT!”) Ahh, yes, of course you want to hear the rest. Yes, there’s a bit more to the story. Please bear with me as I tell you the rest of my story…
VTR: A Boy designing pantsu in his room
(A Boy is sitting at his desk in his room, drawing. He’s lost track of time, and he sees the clock and it’s already showing 8:18…)
A Boy (VTR) : Oh, no!!! I’m late!!!! (starts packing his “Pants Project” sketch book in his bag, ties his shoelaces and leaves the house. His door has the “818” sign hanging on it)
A Boy (stage) : Daahhaaahaahhhhhhhhhh (crying like it’s the end of the world) Oh nooooooooooo I’ve failed my pa… pa… pa… pantsu presentation!!!! What am I going to dooooo!!!! I’m going to dieeeee!!!!! (hugs the “Pants Project” sketch book and rolls around the ground) Noooooooo ahhhhh!!!!!!
I’m back to the beginning again… I don’t have money… I don’t have connection… I don’t have the academic background… I don’t have a dre… (looks at the “Pants Project” sketch book he left on the ground) …wait a minute, I still have a dream!!! My dream is still there!!! Yes!!!! My mom used to tell me “If you at least try, you always do well! If you at least try, you always do well!” She was right!!! Ohhhh I love pantsu… But… I gotta get ready for my next presentation, or else… oh no… what should I do…!?!? If I keep on thinking this hard… I’m going to get tinier!!!!
WHAT SHOULD I DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
(nothing happens… no cool VTR linked this time)
…Oh, I know. I could just go visit those three again!! Yay!!
Closing VTR
- FIN -
This is quite long (19 pages on Word!) and it is a very detailed description of the story. I left out my comments and thoughts because I wanted to report on the story itself, as it had a very nice plot and message. For my random thoughts, comments and many pictures, please read this post first to get a better image of what these characters look like and what the story is all about.
Please read the following report AFTER you read this post... it'll make it better, I promise!!
Just as a note, this is not the EXACT words from the show. I'm not a genius so I can't possibly remember every little line from the play or the VTRs. This is all that I remember from the shows I went to and it's just a general idea of the flow of the story, so PLEASE forgive me for that, haha. I wish I could remember every little detail, but unfortunately my brain is not built that way. The lyrics to "Sorezore no Kimi to" (theme song of 818) is accurate, however, since it was written on the pamphlet.
This show was a great combination of stage-VTR, VTR-stage and VTR-VTR, so I have indicated (stage) and (VTR) depending on which situation the character made his/her comments.
Alright, so... here's the story report (beware, it's long):
Shota Yasuda
hachi*ichi*hachi
Tokyo Globe-za (February 10, 2008 to February 20, 2008)
Osaka Kousei Nenkin Geijutsu Hall (February 23, 2008 to February 26, 2008)
STORYTELLER (stage) : Hello, everyone. Today, I want to tell you a little bit about my past. I ask you all… what do you think is the most precious thing in your life? For me, it is… yes, “encounters”… encounters with people.
To talk about some important encounters in my life, I want to introduce you to one boy who was at a loss as to what was important to him in life. He did not know what his dream was, and he had no clue what he should do in the future. He did, however, have an ambition to “take over the world!”
That boy, of course, was me when I was younger. I used to not listen to what people say, and I would hear things but let it go through my ears from right to left. I was such a troublesome boy.
One night, however, this boy met three street performers that would change his life forever. First one (click; red spotlight lights the side to the left) is the Musician. The second one (click; green spotlight lights the side to the right) is the Art Performer. Finally, the third one (click; blue spotlight lights the center) is the Dancer.
Of course, right now I am filthy rich and even own a house in Ashiya (*rich area in Hyogo; he said “Hayama” in the Tokyo shows). I am definitely not exaggerating when I say, that without meeting these three street performers, I would not have been this successful. These three helped me realize what my real dream was.
Oh, I almost forgot something very important… (takes out something from his jacket pocket) …yes, PANTSU. You see, I’m a pervert… who says I’m a pervert!! No, I’m not. Why don’t I just put that away… Anyway, the confused boy, three street performers and this PANTSU… What kind of story is this going to be? This happens on one chilly night… Now, please enjoy my story…
Rainbow time-machine effect for about 10 seconds
A BOY (stage) : Ohhh maaaan! What should I do! I came all the way to Tokyo but I don’t really have a dream, no money, no brilliant academic background and no connection… gosh!!
My mom used to tell me “If you at least try, you always do well! If you at least try, you always do well!” but… what do I have now? Nothing! …I always had this huge ambition to “take over the world and be #1!” but I really don’t know what to do!!
…Brr… it’s getting quite cold today… where’s my scarf, where’s my scarf… (looks into his bag and takes out his pantsu) ahhh, here it is, yes, yes! If I put this around my neck like this it will make me warm… OF COURSE IT’S NOT GONNA MAKE ME WARM!! (throws it to the ground) Oh, sorry! Pantsu! Please don’t hate me! You’re my only friend! I love you! (hugs the pantsu and puts it back in the bag) Where’s my scarf… ahhh, there it is. (puts on the scarf around his neck)
But man, it’s getting cold… What is going to happen to me!? I have no job, I have no money so I’ll probably not be able to pay rent and they’d kick me out… wait, I don’t want to end up sleeping on the side of the Yodo River (*famous river in Osaka) !!
I really have no idea what to do with my life… WHAT SHOULD I DOOOOOO!? (immediately links with the Opening VTR as the screen shows a headshot of the Boy screaming into the air with his arms spread out)
Opening VTR
Musician (stage) : There’s something missing from me… what is it…? I have a great guitar and gorgeous fingers… ahh, what am I missing…
Well, I guess I should practice the song again. (starts playing the guitar and hums the melody to "Sorezore no Kimi to" and messes up one of the chords) ...ahh, man... That should do for the day... (puts the guitar back and looks up at the crowd) Wow, I didn't notice that there were so many people on the street today watching me. If you have songs you want me to sing, you can tell me, you know.
(for a list of all the songs he sang, go here)
(after singing three or four songs) If you ever want to hear me sing again, you can always come back for more… I’ll be waiting for you. My sweet voice will make you melt.
(walks over to his side and sets his guitar down) Ahh… I could sing other people’s songs so well, but when it comes to my original songs… What is it that I’m missing…
VTR: A Boy meets the Musician
(A Boy is walking around and he stops in front of the Musician, who is holding his guitar)
Musician (VTR) : Do you want me to sing for you?
A Boy (VTR) : Really? You will?
Musician (VTR) : Sure. Anything you’d like.
A Boy (VTR) : Umm… do you have any recommendations?
Musician (VTR) : Hmm… anything.
A Boy (VTR) : Anything!? Hmm… then hip hop!
Musician (VTR) : Hip hop? No…
A Boy (VTR) : Oh, then reggae!
Musician (VTR) : Reggae? No…
A Boy (VTR) : Huh? Then enka!
Musician (VTR) : Can’t you see that I don’t look like the type that would sing songs like that? Geez.
A Boy (VTR) : Well, you said ‘anything’…
Musician (VTR) : I did, but… hey, if you’re just here to make fun of me or something, please go home.
A Boy (VTR) : I’m sorry…
Musician (VTR) : …What? What’s wrong?
A Boy (VTR) : I’m at a confused state right now… I just came to Tokyo and I really have a big ambition, but I don’t know what exactly it is that I should be doing… I don’t have any money, any connection, any dream…
Musician (VTR) : (starts looking at himself in the mirror and apparently has stopped listening to the boy whine)
A Boy (VTR) : People used to tell me that I could do things really well if I just tried, but… I really don’t know what I’m supposed to be doing, you know? I did do a little music myself! But that didn’t last long either… and… EHHHHHH! You weren’t listening!
Musician (VTR) : Yes I was!
A Boy (VTR) : Yeah, right! Then what did I just tell you?
Musician (VTR) : You were talking about… how you came all the way to Tokyo!
A Boy (VTR) : That was at the very beginning!
Musician (VTR) : Well, honestly, this is the first time I’ve met you… what am I supposed to say to something like that? I do music on the streets and I don’t even know what to do with my own life… You know, you probably don’t even have something that you really want to do. Looking for “nothing” is just going to hurt you. It will be different if you had something that makes you happy. …Sorry, I might have been too straight-forward…
A Boy (VTR) : Oh, no, please don’t worry about it.
Musician (VTR) : Do you want me to sing something?
A Boy (VTR) : Really? For me?
Musician (VTR) : Yeah, anything.
A Boy (VTR) : Then… to be able to find something that would make me happy… I want to hear a happy song!
Musician (stage) : A happy song? Something that makes him happy… hmm… will a song that makes him energetic be fine? I remember there was this one Kanjani song… ahh, Maruyama Ryuhei.
(picks up the guitar and walks to the center) If you know some cheers or something that go with this song, please feel free to do it. Alright, please listen. MAGIC WORD.
(plays MAGIC WORD)
Ahh, that was good. Music makes people feel better… Ahh… Music… is the best. (puts his hand on his hat like a good narcissist and that movement links back to the VTR)
A Boy (VTR) : That was nice! Thanks! …But you know, I already had energy.
Musician (VTR) : What?
A Boy (VTR) : Don’t you have any original songs? You know, not like copies of other people’s songs, but like songs that you made yourself.
Musician (VTR) : Uhh, well…
A Boy (VTR) : You don’t?
Musician (VTR) : I do, damn it!
A Boy (VTR) : Oh! Then I want to hear that!
Musician (VTR) : Really?
A Boy (VTR) : Yeah! Well if you can’t, it’s okay, but…
Musician (VTR) : Fine, I will then. …the hell, why is he so bossy… Here I go now. (plays and hums the melody to “Sorezore no Kimi to”) That’s all.
A Boy (VTR) : Hmm?? That’s it??
Musician (VTR) : Yeah? What?
A Boy (VTR) : No lyrics!? Where are your lyrics??
Musician (VTR) : Lyrics… I don’t have them yet.
A Boy (VTR) : What kind of lyrics are going to go with it?
Musician (VTR) : …That’s… not ready yet, either.
A Boy (VTR) : I see… Well, because it has no lyrics, the song is just o-kay…
Musician (VTR) : What??
A Boy (VTR) : No, I think it’s got a great melody! I mean, even an amateur like me can say that it’s a beautiful melody, but… without the lyrics I can’t really get a good idea of the song… Haa, I bet you just couldn’t come up with any lyrics!
Musician (VTR) : I am working on it! What the hell…
A Boy (VTR) : You gotta be able to write good lyrics, eh?
Musician (VTR) : Shut up… I’m letting you hear my songs for free and you end up making fun of me. Go away! Good bye.
A Boy (VTR) : I was being honest! What the hell to you, too… “it’ll be different if you had something that makes you happy” (imitating the Musician) Ha! See ya!! (runs away)
Musician (VTR) : What the hell that kid… A song that makes you happy, eh? …I think it’s got a great melody, but I guess it’s just o-kay without the lyrics… Haa… what is it that I’m missing…
VTR: A Boy sees the Art Performer
(A Boy is walking around again and he sees the Art Performer painting on a wall, and at the same time the Art Performer on stage shows up wiggling her butt in the dark, counting to see if she has all her paint and starts rolling the color white on the wall)
A Boy (VTR) : What the hell, that guy… “it’ll be different if you had something that makes you happy”… what does he know! (sees the Art Performer) Huh?
Art Performer (stage) : (turns around to face the crowd) Hi everyone <3 <3 <3 (squeaky tone) Hello <3 Hello <3 I am the OKAMA!! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiiiii <3 I see so many people and you must have come from many places! Where have you all come from? (this is when she chooses a few fans and asks them where they were from)
Wow, everyone came from so far away! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiii <3 Okay, now I have another question. Do you know what people are made from? (this is when she chooses a few fans and asks them what people are made from)
Okay, yes, people are made from LOVE <3 LOVE is very important <3 People can’t live without LOVE! The main theme of all my art is LOVE… and I want to draw you a character of LOVE I have created… it’s called LOPPY-chan; L-O-heart-P-P-Y, LOPPY-chan! Do you know why?? L-O-heart is LOVE and heart-P-P-Y is HAPPY! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiiii <3
Alright! Let’s start by drawing hearts, shall we!? Music… START!!!!! Clap your hands!!!! And let’s START!!!!!
First I’m going to use pink and draw a heart… and another heart… I’m going to add some holes in them because holes are important… we breathe through our mouth and nose, we listen with our ears… and yes, we COME OUT OF A “HOLE” WHEN WE ARE BORN, TOO!! KYAAAA!!!!! Mmmmm EXCITING!!!!!! (puts one leg up and hands to the back) Okayyyy now I’m drawing some wiggly worms with black… yeah… that’s it… ahhh… mmm… alright next is yellow and let’s use this THICK… yes… (drools)… THICK brush, shall we? Yeah… ohhhh… here I go and WOW!! (splashes tons of yellow on the wall) Ahhhhh… yeah… mhmmm… ECSTACY!!!!!!!! (thrusts hip) YEAH!!!! Oh, the paint is so cold!! Kyaaa!! Splash it all over me <3 <3 <3 Wait a second I’m supposed to be Do-S but I sound like a Do-M!! Hahaha oh well EXCITING!!!!! Kyaaaa <3 <3 <3
Hmm, I guess you’re all getting tired, huh? You can stop clapping if you’re going to sound like that! I can’t hear you!! Ohhh there you go, much better! Let’s turn up the volume shall we!? YEAHHHH!!! <3 <3 <3
Ahhh, yeah, that’s it, ahhh… no, I’m not doing this to relieve stress! Don’t get me wrong! Ahhh yeah, why don’t I use the black again, yeah, I’m going to draw an outline of the figure so tell me when you see it, okay? Say “I see it!” Okay!? Yeah… I’m going to add a nose, and let’s draw a little skull-chan here, too okay!! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiiii <3 Next is pink again, here, the pink in the mouth… wow this is light! Too light! Well, anyway, I’ll add a red too. How about white as well!!! Yeahhhhh this is too good!!!! Now with the orange, I’ll draw the hair… yeah… huh, wait a second, did I get shorter or something? It seems harder to reach the top… oh well, anyway, yeahhhh orange, like the fire!! Ahhh… do you know what goes well with orange? Yes, blue! I’ll add some blue here, here, here and KYAAAA!! So much fun <3 <3 <3
Alright (starts splashing randomly in the middle area of the drawing) I’m going to draw some hearts so once I start counting, you count with me, okay? Do you hear me!? Okay, here we go… One heart <3 (one heart!) Two hearts <3 (two hearts!) Three hearts <3 (three hearts!) Four hearts <3 (four hearts!) Five hearts <3 (five hearts!) Six hearts <3 (six hearts!) Seven hearts <3 (seven hearts!) Eight hearts <3 (eight hearts!) Alright!! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiiiiiii <3
You know, this is not the only thing I have… turn off the lights, shall we? (the eight hearts in fluorescent pink and the word LOVE in fluorescent green show up) See, LOVE!!!! Hi, please applaud!! Hiiiii <3 This is so good! LOVE is important!!!
You know, wall painting is just one thing I do. Oh, look, there’s a wagon full of goodies! Let’s see, there is a whole bunch of pens here… and a sketch book! These pens, I have 130 of them here, are all mine (*as in Shota’s). You know why I had to use my own pens? Yes, we didn’t have enough money to spend on pens! Yes!
And look what I have here… (holds up a watering pot shaped like an elephant) this is Lucky Ikeda-chan!!! (*see explanation on the 8.1.8 things post) Do you know what it does? (screen shows the crowd) Yes, it’s a camera!!! (starts going into the crowd and walking down the aisle) See, I’m a Do-S, so I hope you’re ready for… (shoves the camera into random fans’ faces) THIS!!!! Hahahaha isn’t it embarrassing!?!? Yeah, I BET!!!! Hahahaha this is so much fun!!!!
Hold on… (sniff sniff) what is this (sniff sniff)… I smell MEN!!!! I see MEN!!!! (shoves the camera into the ‘guys’ in the crowd, mostly Juniors or K8 members that were sitting there watching) Ahhh… mmm… you can take me, you know!!! Ahhhh… See, there were some girls touching my ass just now, but I don’t feel anything!!! I LOVE MEN!!!
Here we go… okay, can you all figure out what to do with this chord? (the chord for the camera) Yeah, that’s it, cooperate. We’re all in this together. Hi people on the second floor! You’re on camera too!! …But sorry, this doesn’t zoom, haha. Alright, here we go, that’s it… Okay, can you hold on to this for me? (gives camera to the person sitting in the first row center) Alright, here we go. (starts drawing something on the sketch book) What’s your name, honey? (asks the person holding the camera) Okay, let’s see… and what’s today’s date everyone? Alright, alright… okay I’m going to draw you a sketch using the numbers “8 1 8” okay here we go, tadaaa! (shows the picture on the camera of a face with 8 as the eyes and 1 as the nose and the fan’s name and date on it) Hiiiii applaud!!! <3 <3 <3 Thanks for holding the camera for me. If I rip this page out of the book fine, I’ll give it to you. (rips) Okay, here you go!
(jumps back on stage and puts the camera down… to show a great view of the crotch) Okay, hmm let’s see… what else could I draw. Hmm… what, what is it? What are you all laughing at? What… oh!! Dear goodness!! You are all such a pervert!!!! You wanna see my mysterious triangle!? Perverts!!! Anyway (leaves the camera there) hmm… I’m going to choose a seat number. XX-row, number XX!! Oh, you? Okay, what’s your name? Okay… I’ll write you a nice message… Okay (picks up the camera and shows the message) here you go, “Okama Otoko”!!! I’ll bring it to you so wait where you are! (runs out to give the drawing to the person)
Ahh, that was so much fun, wasn’t it? I love to draw!! I love it so much! But I sometimes stop and wonder if this is what I really want to draw, you know? Sometimes I get confused, but anyway! Drawing is fun and I love to draw for people and love to see their happy faces <3
A Boy (VTR) : Uhh, excuse me?
Art Performer (stage) : Oh, why, hello there. (lights go off on stage)
VTR: A Boy meets the Art Performer
A Boy (VTR) : Umm, can you draw something for me too?
Art Performer (VTR) : Do you want me to draw you? I’m not going to guarantee that it’s going to look like you!
A Boy (VTR) : That’s okay.
Art Performer (VTR) : Fine, then please sit here! (takes out a chair for the boy, sits down on her own chair and starts picking up some pens)
A Boy (VTR) : Umm…
Art Performer (VTR) : (smiles) Shut up.
A Boy (VTR) : I…
Art Performer (VTR) : Shut up.
A Boy (VTR) : Um, is my face really ugly?
Art Performer (VTR) : No, not really.
A Boy (VTR) : Then what is it?
Art Performer (VTR) : You know… I noticed while drawing your face… (puts finger to mouth and has a sexy face on)
A Boy (VTR) : What is it?
Art Performer (VTR) : (puts her face really close to the boy as if were to kiss him) We look alike. Our faces!
A Boy (VTR) : Eh?! Do we? (they both turn to face the camera)
Art Performer (VTR) : We have chimpanzee-like faces.
A Boy (VTR) : Haha, I get that a lot.
Art Performer (VTR) : Oh really, do you!? …Wait a minute, are you kocchi (okama) as well!?
A Boy (VTR) : Ha… haha… n-n-no, no I’m not…
Art Performer (VTR) : lalala (hums and proceeds with the drawing) Okay, I’m done! What do you think?
(image from the pamphlet)
A Boy (VTR) : Ohh, not bad! I kinda like it! Seriously!
Art Performer (VTR) : Really! Oh, please <3
A Boy (VTR) : No, really. I’m really happy… hey, how much do I owe you for this?
Art Performer (VTR) : Oh don’t worry about it, I’m not going to charge you.
A Boy (VTR) : No, but really! I will pay! How much?
Art Performer (stage) : (spotlight on the Art Performer on stage again) Okay, it’ll be 3 million yen <3
A Boy (VTR) : What?!
Art Performer (stage) : Haha, I’m just kidding, dear. I really don’t need any money; I just draw to see people be happy. But I’m still not sure what my real dream is… it’s like an imperfect combustion, you know? I’m studying many of the famous arts by famous artists as I keep searching for myself!
A Boy (VTR) : I see… oh hey, I like to draw too. Do you mind taking a look at a few of them?
Art Performer (stage) : No, go ahead, show me.
A Boy (VTR) : Okay. Where are they… (digs in his bag and starts taking out pantsu after pantsu)
Art Performer (stage) : Oh dear… what is it that you are holding!? Show me… show me… ahhhhhh let me smell it!!!! Come on, let me smell it!!!! Don’t be shy!! Ahhh!!!!
A Boy (VTR) : H-h-haha… well you see, I heard that warriors use to carry around extra pantsu and never wore the same thing because it’ll suck if that warrior loses the battle and they take his clothes off only to show his dirty pantsu, you know? That’s why I want to carry around clean pantsu as well.
Art Performer (stage) : Ahhh ahhh… haha, you are such a child; pantsu could be good dirty too you know!! Kyaaaa <3 <3
A Boy (VTR) : Ahh, there they are. (starts showing the drawings to the Art Performer) I’ve never “learned” art before, but I’ve always liked to draw… what do you think?
Art Performer (stage) : (whispers) These are really good… very unique…
A Boy (VTR) : What did you say?
Art Performer (stage) : Oh, no nothing. I guess they’re okay, but you would need to study a bit more. Remember; something original… the one and only thing in the world. This is what you should look for. If you don’t have this, I think you’re going to have a tough time.
A Boy (VTR) : Yeah, I see…
Art Performer (stage) : Well, you know! The famous Gogh only sold one painting while he was alive! So you should study just a bit more, that’s all.
A Boy (VTR) : I gotcha. I see… Hey, can you please draw me something encouraging?
Art Performer (stage) : Okay…
Art Performer (VTR) : (draws another picture) Here you go! (shows a picture with the words “Deaete Yokatta, Sorezore no Kimi to…” = “I’m glad to have met you, each of you…” with people holding hands in a circle)
A Boy (VTR) : Hmmm…
Art Performer (VTR) : What’s wrong?
A Boy (VTR) : Is this really something you want to draw?
Art Performer (VTR) : …What?? (sound effect for “shock!”)
A Boy (VTR) : Well, this is really hard to say, but… I feel like this is an imitation of someone else…
Art Performer (VTR) : …Whaaaat?? What the hell would YOU know!?
A Boy (VTR) : Well, I guess I know because I don’t know, you know I mean… Uhh, I like the words, though.
Art Performer (VTR) : (turns into a furious guy) YOU IDIOT KID!!!
A Boy (VTR) : Whoa!!! You’re a GUY!!!
Art Performer (VTR) : WHAT THE EFF WOULD YOU UNDERSTAND, EH!?!?
A Boy (VTR) : Uhh… uhh… oh, no, look! It’s the police!
Art Performer (VTR) : (back to the okama mode) Oh! What! Oh no! Oh!
A Boy (VTR) : (runs away and turns around) Hehe juuuuuust kidding!! Hehehe!!
Art Performer (VTR) : Ughhh!!!!
VTR: A Boy sees the Dancer
(A Boy is walking around talking to himself again and with a loud hip hop tune, he sees the Dancer walking with a boom box)
A Boy (VTR) : That was close… but what the hell is wrong with these guys!? “It’ll be different if you had something that makes you happy” (imitating the Musician), “something original… the one and only thing in the world” (imitating the Art Performer)… ugh!!! This is so irritating!!
Dancer (stage) : (Strides into view from the side entrance and walks up to the stairs, sits down and puts the boom box down. He starts to stretch and takes out a roll of tape, puts it around his wrist and rips it off with his teeth. He stretches a bit more, then stands up and jumps high in the air and on to the dance floor. He spins around a few times then puts the boom box on for the song to begin…)
DANCE
VTR: A Boy meets the Dancer
A Boy (VTR) : (claps) Wow, that was awesome!
Dancer (VTR) : Thanks. You know it! I’m eventually going to be a world-class dancer, so look out for me, eh? I’m not up to that level yet but I know I’m going to make it. …Hey, what’s wrong with you?
A Boy (VTR) : What made you want to become a break dancer?
Dancer (VTR) : Wow, that’s out of the blue. I like it, though. Well, break dance is cool, you know? And… well… hmm, what else… I guess it’s because it’s cool, that’s all.
A Boy (VTR) : I see…
Dancer (VTR) : You don’t think so?
A Boy (VTR) : Well, you see, I’m really at a confused state right now. I just came out to Tokyo, but I don’t have any money… no connection, no academic background, no dream… I really have no clue what I’m supposed to do! I guess Tokyo’s just too big for someone like me who’s from the countryside!
Dancer (VTR) : Countryside or not doesn’t matter.
A Boy (VTR) : Are you from around?
Dancer (VTR) : Uhh… yeah…
A Boy (VTR) : Hmm? No? What, are you from Osaka??
Dancer (VTR) : A%&#$...
A Boy (VTR) : What now??
Dancer (VTR) : Akita (with an accent)
A Boy (VTR) : …Haha! You’re from Akita? That was a thick accent.
Dancer (VTR) : I don’t have an accent! (still with an accent) Akita… Akita… (practices his accent over and over) Akita. Do you have anything to give me, eh?
A Boy (VTR) : Well, I don’t… but I do have an ambition!!
Dancer (VTR) : What is it?
A Boy (VTR) : It’s… to take over the world!
Dancer (VTR) : Haha, that’s quite nice, eh. It’s big! I like that.
A Boy (VTR) : Haha, yeah… well, I don’t know what to do, though…
Dancer (VTR) : What to do? Well… you know; music and rhythm are things you can’t see with your eyes. But, I think that dance is there to express those things that you can’t see. So… what I’m trying to say is, you should figure out what it is about yourself that you can’t see, and try to find something that expresses yourself. …Haha, I just said something pretty cool, didn’t I?
STORYTELLER (stage) : Hello. How have you liked the story so far? A boy who did not know what his dream was has met three street performers: the Musician, the Art Performer and the Dancer.
The messages that the three gave the boy: “something that makes you happy,” “something original... the one and only thing in the world,” and “something that expresses yourself.” Yes, these three key words started to give the boy an idea to his life… he saw a light through the dark, dark tunnel… Yes, (pats his pocket) with THIS.
Please continue to watch, as you see what happens to the boy…
Rainbow time-machine effect for about 10 seconds
A BOY (stage) : Something that expresses myself!? What does that supposed to mean? I’ve never thought of something like that, what the hell!! The three I met tonight… they pissed me off!! “It’ll be different if you find something that makes you happy” (imitating the Musician)… “something original… the one and only thing in the world!” (imitating the Art Performer) …Ugh, that was gross!! “If you can find something that expresses yourself, wouldn’t that be cool?” (imitating the Dancer and kinda mocking him) Geez, those three! Grrr!!
…Brrr, it’s still so cold… I must have brought my jacket with me… let’s see… (looks into his bag and takes out his pantsu) ahhh, here it is, yes, yes! If I wear it like this it will make me warm… OF COURSE IT’S NOT GONNA MAKE ME WARM!! (throws it to the ground)
(stares at the pantsu on the ground) …What, you want me to do that again? I’m not going to do that again! …Fine, just this one time, okay!? I’m pretty mad at you already!!
(stuffs the pantsu back in his bag and as he does this, he puts his head in the bag and talks as if he were the pantsu) “That’s fine with me! (squeaks)” What!? Did you just say that!? …Anyway… Brrr, it’s so cold… where is my jacket…let’s see… (looks into his bag and takes out his pantsu) ahhh, here it is, yes, yes! If I wear it like this it will make me warm… OF COURSE IT’S NOT GONNA MAKE ME WARM!! (throws it to the ground) No, I told you! I’m not doing it again!!! …What? …What!? You wanna fight!? I’m ready to fight you!! (walks over to the pantsu and flips it over) Ha! What’s up now!? …NO!! I’m not doing it anymore!! Why don’t you just stay there and freeze your ass off!! Yeah, I hope you catch a cold!! See ya!!! (walks away from the stage)
(spotlight is on the pantsu at the center of the stage)
…WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!! (distant screaming of the boy as he runs back and forth across the stage) WAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!! (backstage) oh man, I stepped on poop. Ugh!! WAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!! (comes out from the crowd and runs through the aisle back on the stage)
Pa… pa… pa… pa… (on his hands and knees as he stares at the pantsu on the ground) Pa… pa… (holds the pantsu up, puts it in front of his face and reveals his face to say) PANTSU YAN!!!! I found it!!! This is it!!!!! This must be the one and only thing that can express myself and make me happy!!!! Why didn’t I realize sooner, I’m such an idiot, idiot, idiot! (hits himself in the head) Ahhhhh I finally found it!!! (dances around, spins around and pose) Tetetetelelelele PANTSU YAN!!! I FOOOOOUND IT!!!! I FOOOOOUND IT!!!!! (raises his hand to his mouth, runs from the left to the right and screams to the crowd)
Yes!!! This is going to make me so happy!!!! It expresses myself and I don’t know of any other pantsu designer!!! This is something original!!! I can make one, two, three pantsu and can make it a three-pantsu set… yes, yes, yes!!!! Yay!!!! I FOUND MY DREAM AT LAST!!!! Kitaaaaaaa!!!! Chachalalaaaaa I’m a PANTSU DESIGNER YAN!!!! I’m gonna take over the world with PANTSU!!!! YES!!!!!!
VTR: The Encounter and a New Beginning
A Boy (VTR) : Yaaaay!! I found it!! Pantsu!! Pantsu!! I’m going to punch the world with pantsu, lalala!!!
Dancer (VTR) : Hey! Hey, yo! You’re sounding like a pervert, dancing around at night with pantsu in your hands!
A Boy (VTR) : I don’t care… pantsu!!! Pantsu!!! I’m going for the world with pantsu!!!
Dancer (VTR) : Oh will you just shut up! You’re not going to take over the world with pantsu!
A Boy (VTR) : (snuggles his face with the pantsu like a pervert) Ahhhh… pantsu…
Dancer (VTR) : Dude, calm down! You’re not going to be able to make money out of pantsu… I mean, come on, it’s pantsu!
A Boy (VTR) : I know! Hey, you’re the one who told me that I should find something that I could express myself with!
Dancer (VTR) : I did… but pantsu!? Come on!! You’re not going to make it!
A Boy (VTR) : Hey! Says who!?
Dancer (VTR) : Well, it’s quite obvious isn’t it!?
A Boy (VTR) : Oh shut up!! I’m hyper right now!! Aren’t YOU the one who should be looking for something to express yourself?? Honestly, your dance could be danced by anyone… you didn’t really express yourself too well!! Why don’t you try and dance so that you’ll move someone’s heart!!
Dancer (VTR) : …the hell!? &%&”$#%”$&%$%#&#&% (starts yelling at him in a heavy accent) Why don’t you give me some money, eh!?
A Boy (VTR) : I don’t have any money… but, I do have PANTSU!! Here you go!! (shoves the pantsu in the Dancer’s face)
Dancer (VTR) : …YOU!!!!!!!
A Boy (VTR) : Hehehe (runs away)
Dancer (VTR) : YOU!!!! (chases the boy… they run far and goes past the Art Performer)
Art Performer (VTR) : Hey!! It’s you!! Wait, I want to talk to you!!
Dancer (VTR) : Help me chase that kid!!!
Art Performer (VTR) : What?? Waaaaait!! (starts running with them)
A Boy (VTR) : (keeps running and comes to the Musician)
Musician (VTR) : Lalalala… (humming to the melody of “Sorezore no Kimi to”) Haaa… what am I missing…
A Boy (VTR) : Hey!! Hey!! I found something that would make me happy!! Here!! I got something for you, too!! (gives the Musician the drawing that the Art Performer gave him with the message “Deaete Yokatta, Sorezore no Kimi to…”) …Oh no, they’re coming!! Gotta go!! See ya!! Hehehehe!!
Dancer (VTR) : (the Dancer and the Art Performer, both out of breath, stops in front of the Musician as the three meet for the first time) Where did that kid go!? (still holding on to his pantsu)
Art Performer (VTR) : Oh!! What a cute pantsu you got there <3 <3 <3 (looks at the Musician, who’s looking at the drawing the boy gave him) Hey, I gave that boy that drawing…
Musician (VTR) : Yeah, he just gave it to me… He told me that it was something that made him happy…
Musician (stage) : Something that makes you happy… happiness… encounters… glad to have met you… This is it!!! I got it!!! I came up with the lyrics!!! (goes over to pick up his guitar)
…Please listen to this song. “Sorezore no Kimi to…”
Sorezore no Kimi to
written and composed by Shota Yasuda
(translated by: paaaaan)
Even though we’re not connected by blood
I am thankful for the necessity in which we met
To me, you are me; and to you, I am you
We bring our hands together and understand each other…
People repeat that kind of imagination over and over as we become one
In our limited life, we live on by loving each other
We capture happiness
Even though the world we lived or are living in are far away
(*he sometimes sang it "different" instead of "far away")
We could share happiness
To me, you are me; and to you, I am you
We bring our hands together and share a laugh with each other…
People repeat that kind of reality over and over as we become one
In our unlimited bonds, we get together and live
We build up happiness
The increasing wrinkles that appear every time we’re happy
The head we cool every time we’re mad
The tears that fall every time we’re sad
The energy we show every time we’re having fun
Everything has a meaning to me and it becomes the same Kidoairaku*
The fact that the each of you becomes happy leads to my happiness
My happiness will become each of your happiness…
That becomes my happiness again, and then…
People repeat that kind of ‘happiness chain’ over and over as we become a circle
In our unlimited encounters, we live on frantically
We share happiness
Happiness…
(*“Kidoairaku” stands for the four emotions:
Ki=Happy, Do=Mad, Ai=Sad and Raku=Fun)
Dancer (VTR) : That was cool.
Art Performer (VTR) : (claps) Yes!!! That was beautiful!!!
Musician (VTR) : Thanks… Actually, that kid told me off… the song was just o-kay because it didn’t have any lyrics. But, I finally came up with one, after I saw this drawing…
Art Performer (VTR) : Haha, I was told off by him, too. But… I guess somewhere in our minds, we knew what we were missing ourselves… and he just kind of pointed it out for us.
Dancer (VTR) : I hate to admit, but it was the same for me, too. He told me I wasn’t expressing myself well enough… but after hearing your song, I’ve promised myself that I will put more soul into my dances. Thanks a lot.
Musician (VTR) : Thanks… but this was thanks to her drawing…
Art Performer (VTR) : Mhmmm, thanks… you know, I’ve decided to put more thought into my drawings from now on as well.
Dancer (VTR) : Haha… this is kinda weird, eh…
Art Performer (VTR) : Yes it is… to have that kid make us realize something very important… Encounters are such a mystery, aren’t they? Hahaha <3
STORYTELLER (stage) : Hello, again. How was it? The confused boy found his dream through his encounters with the three street performers… and what did he end up with? Pantsu, haha. What a funny thing… But, even now, I am a rich man that succeeded as a pantsu designer.
The four people that were missing something met through fate… no, through necessity, and each found what they needed. They influenced each other… isn’t this what we call “encounters”?
I said I was going to tell just a little bit of my story, but it ended up being an hour and a half… I’m sorry about that. But, the fact that you and I met today… wouldn’t you think that’s another important encounter as well?
There’s just a little bit more to this story. If you don’t want to hear it, I’m just going to leave… (makes the fans say “I WANNA HEAR IT!”) Ahh, yes, of course you want to hear the rest. Yes, there’s a bit more to the story. Please bear with me as I tell you the rest of my story…
VTR: A Boy designing pantsu in his room
(A Boy is sitting at his desk in his room, drawing. He’s lost track of time, and he sees the clock and it’s already showing 8:18…)
A Boy (VTR) : Oh, no!!! I’m late!!!! (starts packing his “Pants Project” sketch book in his bag, ties his shoelaces and leaves the house. His door has the “818” sign hanging on it)
A Boy (stage) : Daahhaaahaahhhhhhhhhh (crying like it’s the end of the world) Oh nooooooooooo I’ve failed my pa… pa… pa… pantsu presentation!!!! What am I going to dooooo!!!! I’m going to dieeeee!!!!! (hugs the “Pants Project” sketch book and rolls around the ground) Noooooooo ahhhhh!!!!!!
I’m back to the beginning again… I don’t have money… I don’t have connection… I don’t have the academic background… I don’t have a dre… (looks at the “Pants Project” sketch book he left on the ground) …wait a minute, I still have a dream!!! My dream is still there!!! Yes!!!! My mom used to tell me “If you at least try, you always do well! If you at least try, you always do well!” She was right!!! Ohhhh I love pantsu… But… I gotta get ready for my next presentation, or else… oh no… what should I do…!?!? If I keep on thinking this hard… I’m going to get tinier!!!!
WHAT SHOULD I DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
(nothing happens… no cool VTR linked this time)
…Oh, I know. I could just go visit those three again!! Yay!!
Closing VTR
- FIN -