New Castlevania show features all female cast

The stars of the latest adaptation of the “Castlevania” series will all be women.

The Takarazuka Revue, a unique Japanese all-female musical theater troupe renowned for its elaborate and emotional stage shows, has revealed that its latest project is a theatrical adaptation of the celebrated video game series “Castlevania”.

This forthcoming summer production is titled “Castlevania: Awakening in the Moonlight”.

Previous game adaptations by the Takarazuka Revue have included the Sengoku Basara and Ace Attorney series, and this is the first time the Takarazuka Revue has adapted the Castlevania franchise.

All of the performers in the Takarazuka Revue are female

Konami’s “Castlevania” video game series, which first captivated audiences in 1986, is known for its gothic horror atmosphere, action-adventure gameplay mechanics, and the conflict between the Belmont family of vampire hunters and Count Dracula, alongside his legions of undead and demonic creatures.

The narrative of the stage play primarily draws inspiration from the 1997 title “Castlevania: Symphony of the Night”, a game widely considered by many within the video game community to be the high point in the “Castlevania” series.

“Castlevania: Symphony of the Night” holds a significant place in gaming history, as it is largely credited with popularizing the “Metroidvania” subgenre.

Symphony of the Night was first released in 1997

This subgenre is defined by its large, interconnected game world that players explore, gradually unlocking new areas and abilities, much like the “Metroid” series.

The expansive castle setting, coupled with a strong emphasis on exploration and the acquisition of items and upgrades, were hallmarks of “Symphony of the Night” and have influenced countless games since its release.

The central figure in “Castlevania: Awakening in the Moonlight” will be Alucard, the son of Dracula.

Echoing the storyline of “Symphony of the Night”, Alucard finds himself allied with a collective of vampire hunters as they strive to defeat Dracula.

The poster is a partial recreation of the Symphony of the Night cover art

Alucard will be played by Sea Towaki, a distinguished top star within the Takarazuka Revue’s Flower, one of the five distinct performance troupes that constitute the Takarazuka Revue organization.

Misaki Hoshizora will take on the role of Maria Renard.

The promotional visual released for “Castlevania: Awakening in the Moonlight” features Hoshizora with a bird resting on her hand in reference to Maria’s unique combat style.

In the video games, Maria is distinguished by her mastery over animal familiars, which she summons to aid her in battle, with avian attacks being a prominent aspect of her repertoire.

While “Castlevania: Awakening in the Moonlight” is inspired by the narrative elements and characters of “Castlevania: Symphony of the Night,” the Takarazuka Revue’s adaptation will not be a verbatim recreation of the game’s plot.

Tthe production will showcase an original storyline specifically developed for the stage by Kei Suzuki, who will also undertake the directorial responsibilities for the musical.

The inaugural performances of “Castlevania: Awakening in the Moonlight” are scheduled to be held at the Takarazuka Grand Theater situated in Takarazuka City, Hyogo, from June 7th to July 20th, 2025.

Following the conclusion of its engagement in Hyogo, the production will then move to Tokyo for an extended run at the Tokyo Takarazuka Theater, located in the Yurakucho area, from August 16th to September 28th, 2025.

Tickets for “Castlevania: Awakening in the Moonlight” will be offered at various price points, ranging from 3,500 Japanese yen to 12,500 Japanese yen (approx. $23-83 USD / £18-64 GBP).

The specific cost of a ticket will depend on the chosen seating section within the respective theaters.

The commencement dates for general public ticket sales, which are for individuals not affiliated with the Takarazuka Revue’s official fan clubs, will differ for the two performance locations.

For the performances taking place at the Takarazuka Grand Theater in Hyogo, general ticket sales will begin on May 17th.

For those wishing to attend the Tokyo performances at the Tokyo Takarazuka Theater, general ticket sales will start on July 13th.

At these times, prospective audience members will be able to purchase tickets through the official Takarazuka Revue website.

Source: Official Website