Tetsuko Kuroyanagi to Star in 7th Production of "Harold and Maude" Stage Reading, Joined by KEY TO LIT's Taisho Iwasaki

The acclaimed staged reading of "Harold and Maude," starring veteran actress and TV personality Tetsuko Kuroyanagi, will return for its seventh run. Taking on the co-starring role of Harold is Taisho Iwasaki, a member of KEY TO LIT.

Based on the 1971 American cult film classic, this beloved stage reading has previously featured a line-up of prominent idol-actors in the role of Harold, including Toma Ikuta, Ryusei Fujii, Shori Sato, Koji Mukai, So Matsushima, and Ryuya Shimekake. Iwasaki makes history as the first "Junior" performer—a pre-debut artist—to be cast in this sought-after role. Following the announcement, social media was flooded with congratulatory messages from fans, celebrating his milestone and expressing excitement for the fresh dynamics he will bring to the production's legacy.

Known for his impressive vocals and skill on the guitar, expectations are particularly high for Iwasaki's acoustic singing scenes during the play. Fans have shared their anticipation online, noting that his musical talent makes him an ideal fit for the character. Despite a demanding schedule overlapping with group tour commitments, excitement for ticket lotteries is already soaring as audiences eagerly await the chemistry between Kuroyanagi and Iwasaki.

The context

"Harold and Maude" is a famous dark comedy originally released as an American film in 1971, telling the heartwarming story of an unlikely romantic bond between a death-obsessed young man, Harold, and an energetic 79-year-old woman, Maude. In Japan, Tetsuko Kuroyanagi—one of the country's most celebrated television pioneers, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and author of "Totto-chan: The Little Girl at the Window"—has headlined this annual staged reading adaptation since 2020. The role of Harold has traditionally been passed down to talented young male performers from STARTO ENTERTAINMENT (formerly Johnny & Associates). In the Japanese idol industry, "Junior" refers to performers who actively hone their craft through concert tours, stage plays, and television appearances before making an official major record debut.

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