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Moto Hagio Draws Kabuki Actors in The Heart of Thomas Style
posted on by Lynzee Loveridge
The name Kōshirō Matsumoto has existed within the world of kabuki acting since at least the 18th century. The name is passed down from master to protege in grand naming ceremonies. The most recent Kōshirō Matsumoto is tenth in the line, having adopted the name from his father at the beginning of the year.
Similarly, the name Somegorō Ichikawa is also continually passed down among kabuki actors. Prior to becoming Kōshirō Matsumoto X, the same actor worked under the name Somegorō Ichikawa VII. With his promotion to the tenth generation of Matsumoto, a young 13-year-old actor took on the name, becoming Somegorō Ichikawa VIII in January.
Prominent manga artist Moto Hagio drew both actors for the August issue of Shueisha's BAILA magazine. The issue included a bonus magazine titled Kabuki Koto Hajime! and Hagio drew both Matsumoto and Ichikawa as if they were within her manga The Heart of Thomas.
Ichikawa promotional photo (left), Hagio's drawing of Ichikawa (right)
The Heart of Thomas takes place after a classmate at a German boarding school commits suicide. The secrets and trauma that affects many of the boys start to come to the surface, especially Juli whose new roommate looks just like the recently deceased Thomas.
Hagio's They Were Eleven, A Drunken Dream and Other Stories, A,A', The Heart of Thomas, and Otherworld Barbara manga have English releases. She won the Asahi Prize for fiscal year 2016. The award "honors distinguished individuals and groups in academics, arts and other fields who have contributed to advancements in Japanese culture and society." The foundation chose Hagio "for her innovative approach to drawing manga for young girls."
Source: Comic Natalie
