I think one of the things that confuses Western fans of the anime medium is their Japanese counterparts desire to see their favorite shows turned into musicals. Some anime musicals are almost as popular, if not more so, than the show that inspired them! I am thinking of the Prince of Tennis musical series in particular. Its fan following is mostly made up of ladies in their 20s up to middle aged housewives. I am pretty sure many of them have never seen an episode in their lives. They just love it for the campy excellence of the cracktastic songs, plot, and eye candy actors. In fact, most musicals seem to be targeted at women and the audience is usually almost entirely female at the ones I attend. Yes I go to my fair share, though I have yet to see a Prince of Tennis one. I like anime, I like musicals. Having them intertwined is a really gnarly concept to me.

Also musicals aren’t just the same thing repeated. They go on tour, usually just to two or three cities, then take a break. Then they do it again, but with a new story. It’s constantly changing and adding on to what went on before it. And if you missed the first installment, you can always rent the DVDs to catch up when the newest chapter comes near your town.

My most recent adventure in the merge of anime and musicals was the newest installment of the Bleach musical series. I was invited by a friend who didn’t know it was based off an anime. She just the words “rock musical” and bought us tickets. I got to give her a crash course in the characters and plot points before the show began.

I’ve only seen the DVD of the first Bleach musical. It had plot. I assume the 2nd one did as well. This one…was like if all the characters got together, set aside their differences, and had a jam session. It was fantastic. And the audience were all devoted fans. It was almost like being at a midnight showing of Rocky Horror. There were set phrases the audience would shout at the actors, para-para dances, and sing-alongs. It really was an experience.

Maybe musicals are only best when seen in person, but if the DVDs of any of the series ever make to the States, give them a try. They are good kitschy fun. If you’ll ever in Japan, take in a show. They really are unforgettable.