Attack on Titan: The Musical Closes with Spectacle and Puppets

OSAKA, Japan — On January 13, 2025, the curtains fell for the final time on *Attack on Titan: The Musical*, a stage adaptation of the globally acclaimed anime series. The production, which debuted in October 2024, captivated audiences with its daring use of puppetry, aerial choreography, and emotional storytelling, closing its run at Osaka’s Orix Theater.

The musical, directed by breakdancing champion Go Ueki, brought to life the harrowing tale of humanity’s struggle against towering Titans. Featuring a score by rapper KEN THE 390, the show blended hip-hop, orchestral, and J-Pop elements, though some songs felt tonally inconsistent. The production’s standout moments included its use of elaborate puppets, including a towering Colossal Titan that drew gasps from the audience, and a gut-wrenching reenactment of the anime’s infamous “mom-eating” scene.

“The show really did feature more actors in harnesses than I have ever seen outside of Cirque du Soleil,” said one attendee. The aerial choreography, combined with a 20-meter projection screen, created a visceral experience that mirrored the anime’s high-stakes action sequences.

The musical’s emotional core resonated deeply with fans, particularly in scenes highlighting the human cost of war. A duet titled “Requiem for Anguish,” performed by Mimi Maihane (Carla Yeager) and another cast member, left the audience in stunned silence. “It was downright operatic,” said a theatergoer. “There’s a little too much truth in this graphic story of destruction.”

Despite its strengths, the production faced criticism for its adherence to the source material. Covering only the first 13 episodes of the anime’s first season, the musical introduced unresolved plot points, such as the mystery of the Yeager family basement, which felt unnecessary for newcomers. “Why should anyone care about the loose thread that is the Yeager’s basement?” one critic noted.

The cast, however, received universal praise for their commitment. Kurumu Okamiya’s portrayal of Eren Yeager captured the character’s intensity, while fan favorites like Mikasa, Armin, and Levi were given their due. The ensemble’s energy, particularly during breakdancing sequences, added a dynamic layer to the performance.

As the final curtain fell, the audience erupted into a standing ovation, with four encores before the cast asked attendees to sit for their farewell speeches. For many, the musical was a fitting tribute to a franchise that redefined anime for a generation. “Flawed, but undeniably spectacular,” one attendee summarized. “It’s an accurate adaptation of the source material.”