Rakugo in English? Laugh together in Tenjin!
A fresh, inclusive entertainment that gets everyone laughing — across borders and languages. Back by popular demand, the fifth installment of the Resola Tenjin Presents series welcomes the return of English-language rakugo to Tenjin after its hit debut in late 2024.
A sold-out debut — now back by popular demand!
The first Rakugo in English received a strong response as a unique event where audiences could experience Japanese culture through English. Whether fluent, learning, or not confident with English, everyone shared laughter together in the same space. It’s an experience that goes beyond language and nationality — a universal moment of humor.
What is English Rakugo?
Rakugo is a traditional Japanese art of storytelling that dates back to the Edo period. A single performer creates entire worlds and multiple characters using only voice and gestures. English rakugo keeps the spirit of classical rakugo but performs it in English, sparking imagination beyond language. It’s gaining attention as an entertainment that Japanese and non-Japanese audiences can enjoy together.
Will it really be funny? See it for yourself!
Can traditional rakugo really connect in English? Is it even funny? Don’t worry — it’s a must-see, not only for fluent speakers but also for those learning or just starting out with English. Come experience it live at Resola Hall, right in the heart of Tenjin.
Shinohachi & Shinoharu “Rakugo in English” Vol. 2
Date: Saturday, Feb 7, 2026
Doors open: 14:30 / Performance: 15:00–17:00 (approx.)
Tickets (free seating):
• General ¥2,000
• High school / Vocational / University / Graduate students ¥1,000
• Elementary / Junior high school students ¥500 (elementary students must be accompanied by a guardian)
• Preschool children not admitted
Advance tickets on sale now
Venue: Resola Hall, 5F Resola Tenjin, 2-5-55 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
Tatekawa Shinohachi
Born in 1974 in Yokohama, Kanagawa. Became a disciple of Tatekawa Shinosuke in 2000, promoted to futatsume under the name Shinohachi in 2009. Winner of the 10th Sagamihara Young Rakugo Championship (2011) and 4th Young Rakugo Performer Competition (2012). Promoted to shin-uchi in 2017, keeping the name Shinohachi.
Comment from Shinohachi
“When we did Rakugo in English at the end of last year, I was amazed by how many people came! Fukuoka’s energy really left an impression. Even people new to rakugo or not fluent in English got involved — it became such a fun and memorable show. I’d love for people of all backgrounds to come again. Never seen rakugo? Don’t speak English? No problem! I’m probably the worst at English anyway. See you in Hakata!”
Tatekawa Shinoharu
Born in 1976 in Toyonaka, Osaka. Spent around seven years in the U.S. during childhood and university. Graduated from Yale University and worked at Mitsui & Co. for three and a half years. After discovering rakugo by chance, became a disciple of Tatekawa Shinosuke in 2002. Promoted to shin-uchi in 2020. Performs both classical and modern rakugo, including English rakugo. Author of Anyone Can Laugh at Rakugo in English and more.
Comment from Shinoharu
“I was surprised by the level of enthusiasm in Hakata last time — such HOT PASSION! I’m so happy to be back for a second time. We’ve prepared some new stories and look forward to sharing another great time. See you at the theater!”
About Resola Tenjin
Located in the heart of Tenjin, Kyushu’s top commercial district, Resola Tenjin is next to Kego Park in a refined, urban setting. The building features luxury shops such as Louis Vuitton Fukuoka, Barneys New York Fukuoka, Ristorante Kubotsu, and AbHerї, along with advanced office space and Resola Hall — a venue for cultural and creative events. The 5th-floor Resola Hall has hosted a wide range of sophisticated events, including:
1. Nicolai Bergmann Flower Exhibition (2022)
2. Symbiosis no Sato Kurokawa INN Museum Exhibition (2023)
3. Silent Movie Show (2024)
4. English in Rakugo (2024)
