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“We’re at the Kabuki-za theater,” Diego says.
Once the limo stops, the driver opens the door and I step out. Then Diego is by my side and he leads me inside the Kabuki-za theater. I remember reading about it in the top twenty places to go to if you visit Tokyo. It has a rich Japanese theatrical history and it is in the heart of Tokyo and has preserved the essence of kabuki for over a century.
The history unfolds around me as I walk through the hallway. Kabuki-za, originally established in 1889, but the current structure built in 2013, has a blend of traditional with modernity.
As I enter the theater, the interior is a fusion of opulence and authenticity. The Kabuki-za holds true to its traditional roots with a stunning hanamichi, a raised platform extending into the audience, allowing actors to make entrances. The red and gold colors on the door dominate the decor, creating a sense of grandeur that befits the art form.
The audience sits in tiered balconies, each seat providing a unique perspective on the stage. I can’t get over the attention to detail, from the carefully crafted wooden accents to the exquisite hand-painted backdrops.
The chandelier above, a glittering masterpiece, bathes the theater in a warm glow.
As I settle into my seat, I can't help but marvel at the seamless marriage of tradition and modernity within these hallowed walls.
“If you don’t understand anything or want me to explain, then don’t hesitate to ask,” Diego says as he takes my hand.
The curtain rises, unveiling a spectacle of colors that dance before my eyes. The performers wear elaborate costumes, and the haunting melody of the shamisen fills the space.
I'm drawn into tales of samurai, love, and honor unfolding before me. The actors move with precision, their every gesture telling a story that transcends language.
“I think I know what’s going on.”
As they stop for the intermission, Diego draws closer toward me.
“Okay, we’ll see if you understood it all afterward.”
“Like a test?”
He shakes his head. It’s almost as if he has gone from not trusting me to being completely confident in me. He takes my hand to leave the boxset.
“Do you want a drink or anything?”
I shake my head. I can’t believe how well this is going. It’s been the most romantic experience, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
“I realize now that I was a little cruel. Dragging you here. Expecting you to shine for the deal, but really thinking you would fail.”
“You wanted me to fail?”
I’m hurt by his admission to this, some part of me thought he had more faith in me. I was wrong.
He shrugs. “I don’t know. Maybe. Leticia, it’s not about you, but me.”
I don’t know what he means, and I want to ask him, but then they make an announcement, and we lose the chance to talk more and have to sit back down in our seats. This time, he takes my hand and strokes the back of it. It’s weird. For a split second, I feel as if we’re connecting in ways that we both never thought was possible, but instead of fighting it, we’re enjoying it.
The echoes of tradition resonate in the air, and I find myself grateful for this opportunity to immerse myself in the heart of Tokyo's soul on this unforgettable first night on its streets.
As the show comes to a dramatic end, I don’t want this night to end. Not just the show, but as we stand and applaud, there’s only one thing catching my eye. It’s not the stage, but the man beside me.
“I had the best night of my life. I didn’t think Tokyo was so beautiful,” I purr as I envelop his arm and we leave the theater.
“I’m glad you enjoyed it.”
“I didn’t enjoy it. I loved it!” I shout as I jump in front of him like an excited child on Christmas once we get outside. I expect him to tell me I’m embarrassing him or something and scold me for being this way, but he does nothing of the sort. If anything, he seems to enjoy seeing me this way.
“Well, I could give you something in return.”
He chuckles. “What could you give me?”
I take his arm again, and we walk arm in arm like a couple on their honeymoon. Possibly like a couple in love. I look up to meet his hazel eyes that are already watching me and wonder if he’s thinking and feeling the same thing.
