“STAR ISLAND”, held for the very first time, was an entirely new fireworks extravaganza, developed in collaboration by music, 3D sound, performing arts, and lighting professionals, all as a prelude of what is possible for the upcoming Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Over 230 speakers lined the sandy beaches of Odaiba Seaside Park , filling the venue with sound production from 3D sound design pioneer KATSUYUKI SETO. A troupe of 100 performers added to the visual appeal, acting out a production created by a team of performance designers who are active both in Japan and abroad. The event was made even more revolutionary by lighting engineer AIBA who added his magic to the evening.
The main fireworks show was overseen by established fireworks makers Marutamaya Ogatsu Fireworks, who are also responsible for Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival and the Tokyo Bay Grand Fireworks Festival. Their craftsmanship has earned high praise both domestically and overseas, and they have been awarded a multitude of prizes over their 150 year history. “STAR ISLAND”, which gathered the best in every field, created a new style of hybrid entertainment the world has never seen.
STAR ISLAND
◆Long lines form in huge anticipation
After postponing the event for a day due to inclement weather, long lines began to form even before the 4 PM opening time as the sun shone down on the sparkling Odaiba seafront. While many visitors packed themselves in to find the best viewing spot in anticipation of the 7 PM fireworks, many also took the opportunity to take photos with costume clad performers. As the sun was setting, ELLI ARAKAWA, better known as Elli-Rose, together with SHINICHI OSAWA of MONDO GROSSO , and DJs RHYME and NAOKI SERIZAWA got the crowds going and set the stage for the evening.
◆ Entertainment for people of all ages!
People of all backgrounds came to view the fireworks, and many visitors brought their children, taking advantage of the designated KIDS AREA. We hope that “STAR ISLAND” will continue to be family friendly, and enjoyed by everyone.
◆ 10,000 fireworks light up the night
As the sunlight faded away, and the surrounding high-rise buildings, Tokyo Tower, and Rainbow Bridge lit up, the venue was surrounded by the sound of waves. Suddenly, the quiet ambience transformed in a flash as the first fireworks began to shoot up into the sky. The futuristic fireworks entertainment extravaganza was about to begin.
◆The incredible world of STAR ISLAND
3D sound blasted from all directions enveloping the crowd like a rush of air, and the rhythm and beat synchronized perfectly with the fireworks. The crowd was at times cheering and clapping while at others, people were transfixed by the amazing spectacle in the sky.
With fireworks exploding in the background, the audience was delighted by FIRE, WATER , STAR and AIR performers, and combined with dramatic lighting, the entire venue was surrounded by a mesmerizing fusion of light and sound. As the music transitioned from jazz, urban, and dance all the way to classical, fireworks of all sizes and colors continued to transform the sky.
The event further expanded the realm of firework entertainment, with such endeavors as the “BED AREA” where people were able to enjoy the fireworks laying down, as well as a “DINING AREA” where people could enjoy a combination of great food and spectacular entertainment. The perfectly orchestrated show enthralled the crowd until the very end. But most significant was how “STAR ISLAND” managed to breathe new life into traditional Japanese firework culture by meshing it with the latest technology and incredible content. Another new era of firework entertainment has been launched from Japan to the world.
Comments from Event Coordinator Kenji Kobayashi
Q: What are your thoughts now that the event is over?
A: It took so long to organize but it felt like it was all over in 2 minutes. It was as fleeting as the fireworks themselves.
Q: What was the reaction from the spectators?
A: This is the first time we’ve ever had an event like this, so we don’t know how it’ll be received, but I was pleased to be able to witness the excitement and reaction in person.
Q: How do you rate the event by your standards?
A: I want to say 100%, but I felt that there was more that I could have done, and I hope to be able to bring excitement and awe to an even wider audience, so I’ll aim for 120% next time.
Q: What are you hoping to achieve with next year’s event?
A: The spectacle of “STAR ISLAND” is a work in progress and will continue to evolve, a process that will involve all those who attend. I want to promote this unique form of fireworks entertainment to the world, and hope to spread the energy and excitement all over Japan.
See you again next year in Odaiba!
Event Outline
【Title】“STAR ISLAND – future hanabi entertainment”
【Venue】TOKYO ODAIBA STAR ISLAND（Odaiba Seaside Park：1, Odaiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo ）
【Event Coordinator】 KENJI KOHASHI
【Fireworks Display】Marutamaya Ogatsu Fireworks Co., Ltd.
【Music Director / 3D Sound Designer】 KATSUYUKI SETO
【Lighting / Lighting Engineer】 AIBA
【Stage Director / Progression】 HIROYOSHI URUMA
【Music Production / Music Selection】 cargo（GOKU）
【Music Production / Musical Arrangement】 CHIKARA HAZAMA（RICKY）
【Technical Direction】 TAKUMI YOSHIDA
【Performance Direction】 GEN KOBAYASHI（GEN）
【Production Supervisors】 Avex Entertainment Inc.
【Production】 LeaR inc.
【Assistance】Tokyo City, Minato Ward, Tokyo Conventions and Visitors Bureau
【Official URL】 http://www.star-island.jp/
◆Official materials can be found on the following server:
https://goo.gl/iwJOmb
◆Video Clips:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RV2zYJWy-k
◆Official SNS
Instagram: @starisland_jp
Twitter: @STARISLAND_jp
Facebook: @starislandjp
For inquires, please contact:
「STAR ISLAND」PR Office (Sunny Side Up Inc.)
Staff: Miki Ogawa（+81-80-33839791）／Kindaichi／Shuji Tanaka
TEL: +81-3-68943200 MAIL:
SOURCE: Star Island
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