As the new reality of daily life amid a global pandemic settles in, many people are getting accustomed to somewhat isolated lifestyles as they abide by social distancing measures and work remotely.
For Japan’s theater folks, however, a community that thrives on engaging with a physical audience, adjusting to the crisis has been an urgent — even existential — quest to survive.
The Gorch Brothers, an up-and-coming troupe based in Tokyo, was one of the first theater companies to launch an initiative that takes COVID-19-related concerns into account. Theatre A/way is a project to stage contained performances on the backs of trucks, which can be driven around the country, even visiting areas where contemporary performing arts have likely never been before.