The first-ever Evangelion Kabuki play reveals official title and casts Kaworu

The official title for the “Eva Kabuki” performance, set to debut at the Evangelion 30th-anniversary festival, has been formally announced as ‘Kabuki Symphony No. 1: Evangelion’.

The performance will be a headline event on the third day of the “EVANGELION:30+; 30th ANNIVERSARY OF EVANGELION” festival, which is scheduled for February 2026 at Yokohama Arena.

Evangelion is a hugely influential anime franchise that began in 1995 and is known for its complex narrative and cultural impact.

Alongside the title, a new key visual for the Kabuki performance was unveiled, featuring Kaworu Nagisa and Shinji Ikari.

The art depicts Kaworu in white robes floating above a sunset-lit sea, while Shinji stands on the shore with a large spear, blending the Evangelion world with traditional Japanese artistry.

It was also announced that Kaworu Nagisa, one of the series’ most enigmatic characters, will be played by Sakon Onoe, known as the “Prince of Kabuki.”

Onoe commented:

“I am very much looking forward to seeing how this work, which has a strong impact and a unique worldview, can be expressed in Kabuki. I will do my best to add to this auspicious milestone.”

The actor for Shinji Ikari will be announced at a later date, and the production is a joint project by Shochiku and Khara.

The festival itself will be divided into the “EVA EXTRA 30” exhibition area and the “STAGE AREA.”

The exhibition will feature an “Anniversary Park” showing the original series on CRT TVs and a “MATERIAL of EVA” gallery with art from the Rebuild films.

The “STAGE AREA” will host different programs each day, including a “EVANGELION FASHION’S CARNIVAL” runway show with the RADIO EVA brand on Day 1, and a special live performance by Yoko Takahashi on Day 2.