Sep. 23, 2020 UPDATE
GEAR
Traveler Friendly
No language barrier
Information
Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean
Languages spoken
Japanese and English
Story & Recommendation
Non-verbal show presented in a magical world of roboroids and dolls
GEAR is the first non-verbal show in Japan and is being performed four days a week in central Kyoto. Regardless of age or nationality, it’s an enjoyable show full of rhythmical excitement played by world class performers. It’s animatic, technical, and non-verbal. Ironically the show projects emotions through Roboroids and a doll. The show consists of mime, break dancing, magic and juggling equaling 70 minutes of entertainment. We recommend going to the show in between touring Kyoto or include it as part of your plan for a night out in the city.
1Highlight
Each Performer
The show is expressed through juggling, break dancing, mime, and magic performed individually by the performers. It’s a 5-people stage of a doll character and four roboroids. The story is set in a former toy factory where dolls were made, and the characters start to express their playfulness and curiosity. Enjoy the performance of the very talented cast who alternate their appearances. Because of this, many audiences are repeat viewers, catching different combination of performers. The fans of GEAR get excited about the various kinds of entertainment the alternating cast brings to the show.
2Highlight
Projection Mapping
The stage effects of GEAR are certainly magical. Watch out for the projection mapping which covers the whole area of the stage, programmed to surprise the audience. The idea is to not make the audience wonder how the lights are programmed, but to give them a magical feeling as it enhances the overall show. Not only is the projection mapping amazing, but lasers, LEDs, gigantic wind fans, and props used on the stage are also one of the must-see points of the show.
3Good Experiences
Buy Original Goods
On your way out after the show, check out the original goods that are available for purchase. The illustrations for GEAR are done by Akihiro Yamada, an illustrator and manga artist who resides in Kyoto. You can find t-shirts, tote bags, post cards, pin badges, and more. Pamphlets will come with profile cards of the cast who performed during that particular show. These are popular among GEAR fans who collect them as performers alternate.
- Manner & Tips -
Please turn your phones completely off during the show. The Wi-Fi system is used to operate the show and individual phone systems may affect the operation.
