*Mon, 03 Nov 2025 23:03:35 EST*
Nueva York, NY – The Lincoln Center Theater’s newest production, *KYOTO*, opened last night to a mixed reception, with critics acknowledging the ambitious scope of the show’s exploration of Japanese culture and historical trauma, while simultaneously noting a certain unevenness in its execution. Directed by acclaimed newcomer Hana Sato, the play tells the story of a young American artist, Leo, who travels to Kyoto to confront his estranged grandfather, a former Japanese soldier who served during World War II.
Sato’s direction attempts to seamlessly weave together several timelines – Leo’s present-day struggle for artistic inspiration, his grandfather’s experiences during the war, and a significant event in Kyoto’s history, the bombing of the city in 1945. The set design, a minimalist yet evocative depiction of a traditional Japanese garden and the ruins of a historic temple, has been largely praised for its beauty and symbolic power.
However, several critics have expressed concerns about the play’s pacing and the sometimes-clunky transitions between the narratives. “While the themes of generational conflict and the lingering impact of war are undeniably powerful, *KYOTO* suffers from a lack of focus,” wrote theatre reviewer Miles Carter for *The Broadway Chronicle*. “The frequent shifts in time felt more disruptive than illuminating, and ultimately diluted the emotional core of the story.”
Leading the cast is rising star Kenji Tanaka as Leo, delivering a nuanced portrayal of a struggling artist grappling with his family’s complicated past. Tanaka’s performance was particularly lauded for its vulnerability and quiet intensity. Veteran actress Aiko Nakamura, playing the elder Leo’s grandfather, offered a compelling, if occasionally heavy-handed, depiction of a man haunted by his wartime experiences.
“Nakamura is a force of nature,” noted Sarah Miller for *Variety*. “Her performance embodies the weight of history and the regret of a life lived amidst profound loss. However, the dialogue occasionally felt stilted, particularly during the scenes dealing with direct confrontation.”
Despite these criticisms, *KYOTO* has garnered a significant amount of attention and sparked conversation about important historical and cultural issues. Many reviewers acknowledged Sato’s courage in tackling such a sensitive subject matter.
“This is a daring and ultimately worthwhile production,” concluded David Ramirez for *The New York Times*. “While *KYOTO* may not be a perfect play, it represents a valuable contribution to the theatrical landscape and raises crucial questions about legacy, memory, and the enduring scars of war.”
The production is currently running in the Belasco Theatre and is scheduled to run through January 15, 2026. Tickets are available through the Lincoln Center Theater Box Office and online at www.lincolncenter.org.
Fuente: https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Review-Roundup-KYOTO-Opens-at-Lincoln-Center-Theater-20251103