【Awashima Hyakkei】 What is Singing? What is Acting? A vivid portrayal of the aspirations and youth of students gathered at an opera school!

“Awashima Hyakkei” is an ensemble drama set in the dormitory of the Awashima Opera Academy, where dreams and reality intertwine in the daily lives of the girls. The characters, including protagonist Wakana Tabata, each harbor various emotions as they aspire to become stars of the opera, living together in the dormitory. Among them swirls a mix of competition and friendship, admiration and jealousy, fear and hope. Characters change with each episode, delicately capturing moments of their youth.

Takako Shimura's “Awashima Hyakkei” deeply explores the emotions of the girls through her tranquil narrative style. The characters are not perfect; they portray the reality of innocently harming others. Particularly, the depiction of characters confronting their past mistakes and seeking redemption strongly impacts readers. The work not only offers drama behind the glamorous stage but also attractively portrays the complexity of human relationships.

The anthology format of this work unfolds stories woven by characters from different generations and eras. While each episode is independent, subtle connections occasionally enrich the entire work with depth. Readers will gradually comprehend the multi-layered relationships and backgrounds by revisiting each episode. These stories skillfully portray the nuances of emotions mixed with love and hate, along with the beauty of youth.

“Awashima Hyakkei” draws readers in with its unique world and character depiction, reminiscent of Japan's prestigious Takarazuka Revue opera school. The interplay of beautiful moments and harsh realities delicately portrays the complex emotions of the girls. More than just an ensemble drama, the work beautifully represents the multifaceted nature and growth of humans, leaving an unforgettable impression on many readers.