Tan Dun: “TEA – Tea is the Mirror of the Soul” 2026 in Japan Ticket

Overview:

Acclaimed composer and conductor Tan Dun returns to Japan to lead a brand-new production of his opera, “TEA – Mirror of the Soul.” Originally commissioned by Suntory Hall, this internationally celebrated work makes its triumphant return after 20 years. The opera is a profound exploration of love and philosophy revolving around the “Cha Jing” (The Classic of Tea), blending traditional Chinese culture with contemporary operatic storytelling.

The production features a distinguished international and Japanese cast, including baritone ZhengZhong Zhou and soprano Lucy Fitz Gibbon, accompanied by the New National Theatre Chorus and the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra. This specific staging, directed by Sherwood Hu, incorporates unique percussion elements using water, paper, and stone, creating a multisensory experience that transcends typical operatic boundaries.

Schedule & Tickets Information:

Venue Information:

• Suntory Hall Main Hall
• 1-13-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• Main Entrance located on the 2nd floor of Ark Hills
• Near Roppongi-itchome Station (Namboku Line) and Tameike-sanno Station (Ginza/Namboku Lines)

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Faqs

What is the language of the performance for the TEA opera?

The opera is performed in its original language, but the production at Suntory Hall includes both Japanese and English subtitles. This ensures that international audiences and local fans alike can follow the intricate libretto written by Tan Dun and Xu Ying throughout all three acts.

Who is Tan Dun and why is he significant in this production?

Tan Dun is a world-renowned contemporary composer and conductor, perhaps best known for his Oscar-winning score for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. In this production, he serves not only as the composer but also as the conductor, providing a direct and authentic interpretation of his own musical vision.

What makes the percussion in this opera unique?

Tan Dun is famous for his “organic music,” and in TEA, percussionists use natural materials such as water, paper, and ceramic tea sets as instruments. These organic sounds are integrated with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra to represent the elemental themes of the story and the soul of the tea ceremony.

Is there a break during the three-act performance?

Standard operatic performances of this scale at Suntory Hall typically include one or two intermissions between acts to allow the audience to rest and the stage to be reset. You can enjoy refreshments at the hall’s bar area during these breaks while taking in the venue’s elegant architecture.

Where is the best place to sit in the Suntory Hall Main Hall?

Suntory Hall is designed in a “vineyard” style, meaning the seating surrounds the stage for excellent visibility. S seats generally offer the most balanced acoustic experience and a direct view of the performers and Tan Dun’s conducting, though the hall is famous for its high-quality sound in every section.