Osaka Shochikuza theater brings down the curtain after 103 years

A traditional theater in Osaka, western Japan, has wrapped up its 103-year-long history with a final kabuki performance. Osaka Shochikuza Theatre has drawn many fans to a variety of performances, typically kabuki, since its opening in 1923. But its operator, Shochiku, decided to close it and demolish the building, citing its aging facilities.
A final Kabuki performance was staged on Tuesday evening, wrapping up with a special program that bid a fond farewell to Shochikuza, set in Dotonbori, a busy entertainment district. The theater has long been the symbol of the area.

大阪松竹座が昨夜、千秋楽を迎えました。
1923年の開場から103年目でした。
建物自体は1997年に正面外壁を残しながら建て替えられていたので、建築としては古いものではありませんでした。… pic.twitter.com/pxHah8UJJS

— 旅とクラフト (@AMFFCRAFTWORK) May 26, 2026

The actors lined up on the stage after the performance. Living national treasure Kataoka Nizaemon said this is not the end and that he believes Shochikuza's yagura tower will rise once again in Dotonbori. His remark drew applause from the audience.
Many people gathered in front of the theater after the show, where the manager gave a few words to express his gratitude. An audience member in her 80s said she could not watch the performance without tears. She expressed her heartfelt hope that a kabuki stage will come back to Osaka.
Shochiku has said it will work to create a new front to disseminate culture and entertainment. But a specific plan has yet to be disclosed, and attention is focused on what lies ahead.