This page contains blog posts, from the members of Mankai, from July to December 2021. For blogs sharing the same title, the dates has been added to correct the links.
| Author | Title | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Tasuku | The Final Curtain Call | 07/04/21 - 07/05/21 |
| Tsumugi | Bamboo Tree Decorations | 07/07/21 - 07/08/21 |
| Juza | (Untitled) | 07/10/21 - 07/11/21 |
| Yuki | Halloween | 07/21/21 - 07/22/21 |
| Banri | School | 07/25/21 - 07/26/21 |
| Citron | Citron's blorg part2 | 07/29/21 - 07/30/21 |
| Omi | Summer Break | 08/02/21 - 08/03/21 |
| Itaru | Class Dismissed | 08/05/21 - 08/06/21 |
| Muku | Thrilling Card Game | 08/08/21 - 08/09/21 |
| Yuki | The Beach | 08/12/21 - 08/13/21 |
| Azuma | Summer Trip | 08/16/21 - 08/17/21 |
| Tsumugi | A Memorable Dream | 08/20/21 - 08/21/21 |
| Azuma | White & Blue Contrast | 09/03/21 - 09/04/21 |
| Masumi | (Untitled) | 09/06/21 - 09/07/21 |
| Tsuzuru | The Star of September 9 | 09/10/21 - 09/11/21 |
| Juza | (Untitled) | 09/17/21 - 09/18/21 |
| Sakyo | Special Announcement: Blog Relay | 09/30/21 |
| Azuma | No. 2: Self Improvement | 10/01/21 |
| Chikage | No. 3: To the Spring Troupe | 10/02/21 |
| Tenma | No. 4: When I Grow Up | 10/03/21 |
| Omi | No. 5: Unforgivable Mistake | 10/04/21 |
| Masumi | No. 6: Greeting | 10/05/21 |
| Misumi | No. 7: A Special △ | 10/06/21 |
| Hisoka | No. 8: Marshmallows | 10/07/21 |
| Citron | No. 9: Citron's blorg special | 10/08/21 |
| Kazunari | No. 10: Hey Hey Hey Everybooody! | 10/09/21 |
| Tasuku | No. 11: Aww | 10/10/21 |
| Taichi | No. 12: A New Taichi Nanao's Coming! | 10/11/21 |
| Kumon | No. 13: Good Things to Come! | 10/12/21 |
| Itaru | No. 14: I Should Find an Exorcist | 10/13/21 |
| Juza | (Untitled) | 10/14/21 |
| Tsumugi | No. 16: College Days | 10/15/21 |
| Muku | No. 17: Manga Recs | 10/16/21 |
| Azami | No. 18: Makeup I Want to Try | 10/17/21 |
| Homare | No. 19: Lovely Locks | 10/18/21 |
| Tsuzuru | No. 20: After Happily Ever After | 10/19/21 |
| Guy | No. 21: Guy's blorg: speshall | 10/20/21 |
| Banri | No. 22: Clubs | 10/21/21 |
| Yuki | No. 23: Second to Last | 10/22/21 |
| Sakuya | No. 24: Two Whole Years! | 10/23/21 |
| Azami | Halloween Makeup | 10/31/21 - 11/01/21 |
July[]
The Final Curtain Call
Tasuku Takato
If I hadn't been involved in the theater world, I never would have joined the Mankai Company, and I never would have met the others in the Winter Troupe. I don't think I would have ever wanted to act with them, either.
I've been never one to believe in pretentious things like fate, but every little thing that's happened since I joined the Mankai Company has made me reconsider... Thinking that makes me feel so out of character.
But it's through my experiences performing alongside the Winter Troupe that I've found a home for myself at the Mankai Company and that I've come to love theater.
I'm glad that I found theater. I truly love acting. I can't even remember how long it's been since I've felt this simple bliss.
The point at which my time as an actor ends is still undecided, but at the end of the road, I know what I'll remember most fondly is the view from the Mankai Theater's stage.
Until that day comes, I will keep aiming higher and higher. Please continue to support me in my endeavors.
For now, I'm going to indulge in a well-deserved drink. Tasuku Takato, Winter Troupe
Bamboo Tree Decorations
Tsumugi Tsukioka
Today is July 7 or Tanabata, the Star Festival, How are you celebrating the day? All of us here are busy preparing for the day by thinking about our wishes, decorating the dorm...I'll admit, I'm not the best with crafts or working with my hands, but I'm doing my best to help make our dorm as festive as I can!
Actually, because most of us have tried our hand at making bamboo tree decorations, you can find a lot of unique and varied creations around the dorm. Taichi made so many creative pieces, but this one surprised me the most.
(Sorry... I couldn't get the camera to focus on Taichi.) Taichi called his creation the 'Ultimate Phoenix'. It looks powerful and cool, doesn't it? It added a nice touch of sophistication to our bamboo tree. Anyway, I hope you all have a wonderful time during Tanabata! This was Tsumugi Tsukioka from Winter Troupe. P.S. Tasuku taught me how to upload photos to the blog. I had no idea I could do that... Who knew there were so many functions? I'm going to do my best to master the system and post more photos next time.
(Untitled) 07-10
Juza Hyodo
When I talked to Omi about it, he baked me a monster-shaped pumpkin cake. That's not what I was after, so I felt kinda bad, but ain't complainin'. I don't think there's anythin' Omi can't make. That cake was good. Last year, the whole company participated in some Halloween contest. We all wore costumes and did street acts in pairs. I was paired up with... Hisoka, I think. I remember eatin' candy with him.
I dunno if it's gonna happen again this year, but if it is, I definitely wanna take part.
Juza Hyodo, Autumn Troupe
Halloween
Yuki Rurikawa
Unlocked by: Unlocking all the chapters of A Tag-Team Halloween 2/Story
We participated in Halloween on Veludo again this year. All the participants' costumes and the street decorations were adorable, and I was honestly pretty excited just walking around.
Azami and I got paired up for the contest, but we narrowly missed out on getting first. It was a major disappointment, to be honest, but I still feel pretty accomplished, so I have no regrets. Besides, acting with Azami was fun.
I think it goes without saying, but I was obviously the one who made all of our Halloween costumes. Did you get a good look at all of them? Last year, everyone asked me to make what they wanted to wear, so this year, I got to make the costumes I wanted to make.
Everyone started practicing their costumes on once I finished making them all. During one of our practice breaks, I stepped into the lounge...
...And found that it had turned into an interrogation room. I told them not to eat while in costume, but Chikage just clapped back that it was part of getting into character. He said it with such a smug face that I got kinda pissed off.
Anyway, I don't know if I'll be making Halloween costumes again next year, but there are still so many that I want to make. It might not be a bad idea to start brainstorming them now.
School
Banri Settsu
You kinda get a sense of when the seasons are changin' whether you decide to get either an iced or hot drink. I dunno where the people who read this thing live, but if it's hot, get yourself somethin' refreshing. And if it's chilly, try not to catch a cold, yeah?
Not too long ago, everyone from the Spring Troupe went to watch Masumi durin' his Sports Festival. I remember readin' about it here on the blog, and it was so damn hilarious. I graduated from the same school Masumi goes to, so I know their security is hella tight. Normally, it'd be unthinkable for anyone other than families to attend. Seriously, how the hell'd they get 'special permission' to go in?
They showed me a ton of pictures from the event, and it got me feelin' all nostalgic. I mean, it hasn't been that long since I graduated, but still.
It's not like I felt lonely or sentimental or whatever, but I guess thinkin' about how I might never get to step through those front gates again got me feelin' some kinda way.
It'd be a pain to make a big visit out of it, and there're some mugs there I'd rather not see, but if I ever got the chance, it could be nice to pop in for a quick hello.
Anyway, comin' to the end of my post, so here's an announcement. Our next performance's gonna be a school-themed play, featuring a mixed troupe cast. It might be a strange lineup of performers, but I bet it'll be a good one. Look forward to it.
See ya there. Later.
Citron's blorg part2
Citron
for
dinner yesterday.
Chicken curry for dinner tonight..
Chicken curry for dinner
tomorrow ?
I stood in
place for Muku's homework.
Rest in peaces...
Goodnite!
August[]
Summer Break
Omi Fushimi
This hot weather just will not let up! Even though I'm not normally susceptible to the summer heat, I'm struggling this year, too.
Ice cream has become a popular commodity in the dorm, and despite constantly buying more whenever we go grocery shopping, it always disappears in an instant. Actually, maybe the others will appreciate popsicles and other icy treats more than ice cream in this heat.
It might be a good time to invest in a shaved ice machine... I'll have to talk it over with Sakyo, though.
All the students are on summer break right now, and that includes me. Some of us are heading home while others are planning to travel. It's kind of sad to think about how empty the dorm will be with everyone gone, since it's usually so boisterous.
That being said, I'll most likely be heading home myself. It's been a while, so I'd like to see my dad and brothers again.
Everyone, be careful of getting heatstroke! Make sure to stay hydrated and cool!
Class Dismissed
Itaru Chigasaki
Unlocked by: Unlocking all chapters in A Two-Faced Teacher event story.
Honestly, it felt a little weird going into this play, since it was our first mixed performance, and the lineup was so unique. However, I trusted all the guys and knew their acting skills were reliable, so I was able to relax on stage and give a good performance. I think my experience as the lead in KotR was also very useful.
I've played a wide variety of roles up until now, but none of them have been as familiarly distant as Shigeto Futami. Back when I was a student, I never had any teachers I felt particularly close with, so honestly, I may have been a little prejudiced toward them.
However, in order to play Futami as best I could, I headed back to my alma mater for a visit and talked with the teachers there. It felt silly to realize it so late, but they're just normal humans like we all are.
When I stood up on stage, I understood that, sometimes, we miss obvious things right in front of us only to realize the truth later on. There's still so much to learn and experience. I think this is one of the beauties of acting...
If I said any of this out loud to anyone, I get the feeling I'd get called a theater junkie again. The first time, Tsumugi was the one who said it. Then Banri. If another person calls me out a third time...I guess I'll just have to accept it.
Thrilling Card Game
Muku Sakisaka
I can't believe we're already so far into this year! Time really flies, doesn't it? Lately, everyone in the dorm has been really into card games. Just yesterday, we all played Old Maid together.
Since it's apparently super easy to read me, I tend to be the last one out, but Tsumugi is really good at it!
I heard he used to study psychology back when he was in university, and it shows! He's an expert at reading people. (Psychology sounds like such a cool major to have...!)
Aside from Old Maid, we also played President and Wink Murder until really late. Everyone knows different rules for President, so we tried a bunch out, but Itaru described the end result as 'pure chaos'!
If any of you have recommendations for fun card games, please tell us about them in a comment send us a letter!
All right, everyone! Thanks for reading all the way to the end!
The Beach
Yuki Rurikawa
We were on our way back from shopping at a mall that's kind of far away when Kazunari and Kumon started clamoring about how they wanted to see the ocean. Tasuku was acting as our chauffeur at the time, so he reluctantly rerouted the car and took us to the beach.
We couldn't go in the water because nobody brought their swimsuits, so we just spent our time looking out at the sea while eating shaved ice. I guess it was a pretty nice break, though. I've been getting kind of tired of sewing our costumes, so it was a good breather.
While we were there, I noticed Kumon scrawling something in the sand and decided to take a sneak picture of him.
Unfortunately, a big wave came along right at that moment and washed everything away. I figured he probably just wrote Juza's name, but when I asked him about it, he said it was 'a secret!'
Not that I cared, but that was kinda annoying.
I'm definitely bringing some swimwear to the beach next time so I can fully enjoy myself. Of course, I'll be going with the rest of Summer Troupe. We have a bunch of whiners in our troupe, so if we left any of them behind, they'd never stop complaining...
Summer Trip
Azuma Yukishiro
Actually, I recently went on a trip to a southern island that has a dazzlingly beautiful ocean. Of course, I made sure to protect myself from UV rays while I was there.
It's been a while since I last went on a relaxing solo trip, and it was truly great. However, I realized it really is more fun to travel with a companion. I should invite someone from the company to come with me next time.
Oh, yes. I don't normally take photos while I travel, but Kazunari put in a special request for a nice selfie against the sunset, so I tried my hand at taking one.
I've gotten used to having my picture taken since joining the troupe, but it still feels awkward to take one of myself.
Every day is as hot as the last, so please make sure to take care of yourselves.
I'd love to hear all about your lovely summer memories when you stop by the theater next.
See you soon.
Azuma Yukishiro, Winter Troupe
A Memorable Dream
Tsumugi Tsukioka
Unlocked by: Unlock all event chapters of mAnkai ApArtment!
It's been quite a while since my last blog post. I guess you only realize how quickly time passes after the fact.
Sorry to change the topic suddenly, but do you ever remember your dreams? I usually don't remember anything clearly, but recently I had a very memorable dream... It was so vivid that, even after I
woke up, I wasn't sure if I was awake or still dreaming.
Everyone in the Mankai Company showed up in it, but we all had completely different occupations to the ones we have now. (For example, I was working as an instructor for flower arrangement.)
Everyone else had such interesting jobs that fit their personalities really well, but I don't want to make this post too long by listing them all. I'll have to tell you more another time. Oh, by the way, we roasted sweet potatoes in the courtyard the other day. I had wanted to share the photos, but when I looked over them, I realized they were all completely out of focus... I'm sorry. I'll try to take some better ones next time.
See you, everyone!
September[]
White & Blue Contrast
Azuma Yukishiro
Unlocked by: Unlock all event chapters of Oh, Exquisite Gaia!
Not too long ago, I went with some troupe members on a domestic trip. The location we visited was a replication of the Greek island of Santorini. It was quite impressive how they managed to recreate the same architecture and overall atmosphere.
The hotel where we stayed had three adorable dogs as their mascots. They were very friendly, and we got to play with them on our final day.
Oh, we weren't there to go sightseeing, if you were wondering. We actually were there to perform for the opening ceremony of a new amusement park.
Since the park is Greece-themed, we did a performance based on Greek mythology. I played the godess Gaia. Our play was a comedy, and the others' performances were so entertaining, I nearly broke character and laughed while watching them. I hope all of you can have a opportunity to see that play one day.
Oh, and one more thing. Do you remember how I talked about my solo trip in my last blog post and how I wanted to bring someone along with me the next time I traveled? I never would have thought I would be able to travel with so many people before I even got the chance to invite anyone out. I wonder if writing about your wish in this blog will make it come true? Hehe.
I would be delighted if you could share some happy memories or events with me here.
Talk to you soon.
Azuma Yukishiro, Winter Troupe
(Untitled) 09-06
Masumi Usui
Kazunari has been talking nonstop about having a Christmas party lately.
He's been blabbing on about everything from what cake to serve to what ornaments we should decorate the tree with. He's even trying to get us into doing a gift exchange.
The others are totally buying into it and getting all excited. I even got dragged out to go Christmas shopping the other day. We still have plenty of time left, though. Isn't it a little early for this?
I felt the same way back during the Sports Festival, but man, this entire company is full of busybodies.
The Star of September 9
Tsuzuru Minagi
Yesterday, September 9, was Banri's birthday. Compared to how he was when he first joined the company, he's gotten a lot softer and mellower, but he still puts up a tough front every now and again. Just yesterday, he was saying things like, 'What's the point of makin' such a big fuss over today?' but we all know he appreciated it.
With as many members as we have in the troupe, it's no surprise we have birthdays literally every month. That's how we ended up putting together a birthday committee with rotating party planners. Here are yesterday's birthday ringleaders.
As you can see, Misumi and Homare prepared Banri's favorite food: California rolls. But since Homare doesn't like fish roe, they didn't turn out as authentic as they should have...
Anyway, we played a lot of games together during the party. We had everything from video games to tabletop board games to choose from. Some of us were surprisingly good at games, and quite a few of us got really into them. All in all, the party was a blast. I think some of them even pulled an all-nighter gaming. Someone joked that we were more focused on the games than the birthday boy, but Banri seemed to really enjoy himself, so that's what matters.
Happy birthday again, Banri! Work hard in university, okay?
Well then, I'll talk to you another time.
Tsuzuru Minagi, Spring Troupe
(Untitled) 09-17
Juza Hyodo
Unlocked by: Unlock all event chapters of Holiday Dreams.
Guess it makes sense, since all the bakeries I've been goin' to are advertisin' Christmas cake reservations and stuff. I heard Omi's preparin' a cake for us, though, so we don't hafta order anythin'. Oh yeah, I almost forgot that Sakyo told me to do some PR for us. We're gonna be appearin' on a TV show pretty soon.
Tsuzuru wrote the story for it. I got to act with some people other than the members of the Autumn Troupe, so that was pretty cool.
Sakyo's gonna make an announcement with more details later. You should watch the show if you've got the time.
Thanks for reading. Juza Hyodo Autumn Trope
Blog Relay Project[]
Special Announcement: Blog Relay
Sakyo Furuichi
We at Mankai appreciate your patronage and hope you will join us again for our performances.
Now that all the greetings are over, an announcement.
The revived Mankai Company is nearing its second anniversary, and we have increased in both members and fans. Even this blog has been around for nearly a year.
To celebrate, every day from today, we'll post a blog entry from a different member of Mankai. They'll introduce themselves, write something, and then ask a question to the person who will post the following day. The next person then has to answer that question. That the rule. Both longtime fans and new ones should find the content interesting. If nothing else, think of it as a way to pass the time.
Now that you've got the gist of it, I'll start.
My name is Sakyo Furuichi, and I'm the oldest member of the Autumn Troupe. My specialty is stage combat, particularly with swords. My hobbies include reading and watching movies. I recommend the novella Chigasaki just lent me-"My House is Now a Veggie Stand?: Spring Veggies". The title is idiotic, but it's not bad. He also lent me "The Big Brother Appreciation Association", but...as someone with a younger sister, it was troubling, to say the least. Not my cup of coffee.
Well, enough of that. Tomorrow's blog post will be by Mankai's heaviest drinker. I'll let you guess who.
As for my question for them... Let's go with 'What are you hoping to improve on in the next year?'
I have a feeling the others will come up with ridiculous questions, so it may be best to start off with something simple.
Come back to read tomorrow's post if you're interested in seeing who's next in this relay.
No. 2: Self Improvement
Azuma Yukishiro
Did you all read Sakyo's blog post yesterday? We here at Mankai will each be posting a little something about ourselves every day for the next few weeks.
I suppose I should introduce myself first. My name is Azuma Yukishiro, and I was born on January 22nd. I'm in the Winter Troupe, and my blood type is B. My age, you ask? That's a secret. Sakyo called me ion
Mankai's heaviest drinker, but if we're going by volume, that title doesn't actually go to me. I won't spill the beans on who it does belong to, though.
Sakyo's question for me was about I'd like to work on improving about myself. It's a rather standard question, but it's very like him to ask something so austere. I suppose my resolution is to put more into supporting everyone in any way I can. Since everyone at Mankai has been so supportive and helpful to me, I wish to return the favor.
That's all for today's blog post, I think. I can pose a question to the next person in line, yes? Tomorrow is a man of mystery who keeps a lot of secrets, so I think I'll ask him 'What's a secret from the past year you can reveal to us?' I can't wait for his answer tomorrow.
Love,
Azuma Yukishiro
No. 3: To the Spring Troupe
Chikage Utsuki
Hello to you all. Here's to another year full of shows.
So, part 1 of this relay blog is my self-introduction. I'm Chikage Utsuki, and I'm with the Spring Troupe. I do a lot of business with companies overseas, so my biggest skill would be foreign languages. To all of our fans from overseas, feel free to come see our shows. I can assist you, so you don't have to worry about the language barrier.
For part 2... Of course Azuma would ask a question like that. I can't think of a single thing harder to ask someone to do than to spill a secret from the past year. But the rule is that I must answer, so I can't see any way out of it this time around. All right, this one should be good.
The Spring Troupe all lost some weight during KotR, but when Yuki weighed us, we'd lost more than we thought. Everyone freaked out a little bit and worked hard to put on more weight, but...actually, I'd forgotten that Matsukawa had told me the scale was broken and asked me to fix it. I fixed the scale once I remembered that, of course.
Still, I should probably apologize to the other Spring Troupe members, especially the one who worked the hardest to put on more weight. You all may have gained a few kilos, but you were all pretty skinny to begin with, so it's probably better in the long run, anyway.
Tomorrow's blog post is by someone who works himself to the bone despite having schoolwork on top of everything else. His question is: What's something you want to do when you grow up?
I really want to make him answer in a foreign language, but I'll be nice just this once.
No. 4: When I Grow Up
Tenma Sumeragi
Apparently, I have to introduce myself and then answer the question the last person asked in this blog post. You all know who I am, though. I don't see the point in introducing myself again, so I'll keep it short.
I'm Tenma Sumeragi, the Summer Troupe's leader and a professional actor. My hobby is taking care of bonsai trees. I'm also into landscape architecture. I got interested in it after playing a gardener for a movie.
So my question from Chikage was something I want to do when I grow up. I had to think about it, but I couldn't really come up with an answer. I guess try alcohol? I'm not all that interested in things like wine and beer, but seeing the adults in Mankai drink, I noticed that drinking makes it easier to talk and be yourself, for better or worse. So I'd like to try it someday. As both an actor and just a person in general, I feel like a drink or two would be a good experience to have under my belt.
Tomorrow's blogger is the one who takes care of our meals. My question for him is question is, 'What's something that made you angry recently?' How's that sound? He's always so calm, I'm actually really curious.
Well, see you tomorrow.
No. 5: Unforgivable Mistake
Omi Fushimi
I'll start off the post with my self-introduction. My name's Omi Fushimi, and I'm part of the Autumn Troupe. I like taking pictures...but I guess I already said all of that. I'd say my biggest skill is cooking. I'm usually in the Mankai kitchen at least once a day making something. Right now I'm working on getting my spicy dishes up to scratch.
Tenma wanted to know something that's made me angry recently, huh? I've never really thought of myself as a calm person, but that's a hard question. I've been wracking my brain ever since I read the question yesterday, but there's only one thing I've come up with so far.
It was after we'd all gone to eat Chinese food to celebrate Taichi and Azami getting good grades on their exams. Everyone had a great time, and I took a bunch of really good pictures, but...I accidentally wiped the data before transferring it. I was so mad at myself. When I apologized to everyone, they just said it was fine because we could always go again. There's no use crying over spilled milk, so I'll just look forward to the pictures I'll get the next time we all go out. I hope that's an okay answer.
Tomorrow's blog is going to be by someone who's straightforward and honest, if a little standoffish. For him, I'd like to know, 'What's a food you've been craving recently?' He never seems super interested in food, so I want to know his tastes better. Oh, and he's not allowed to answer 'curry'.
No. 6: Greeting
Masumi Usui
Omi's question was food I've been craving. Nothing, really. The old man said I have to answer, though, so I thought about it, and I guess the answer's coffee jelly. The director gave us some after practice, and it was pretty good. They serve it at school sometimes, too.
Tomorrow's blogger is by a weirdo. There're a lot of those at Mankai, though. Question: What new napping spots have you found recently? It's too noisy around here, so spill.
No. 7: A Special △
Misumi Ikaruga
Hi, everybody! Have you all been doing good? I've been eating lots of hot pot and mochi so I can have a good year of triangle hunting! △
I like this relay blog idea. It's fun! Sakyo's really smart! I should give him some triangle mochi!
Okay, time for my introduction! I'm Misumi Ikaruga! The Japanese characters for my name are the same ones that spell out 'triangle', but it's pronounced 'Misumi'. I don't mind if you call me 'triangle", though! Because I love triangles!
And Masumi asked me a question! He wanted to know about my new napping spots. My new favorite is on the roofs of the buildings in the shopping district. The sound doesn't reach up there, and every once in a while you get a whiff of something yummy! Plus, it's nice and sunny! You should give it a try! I'll introduce you to the person in charge of the whole place. They're bestest friends with Citron!
Tomorrow, Masumi's napping friend said he'd write the blog. He should try sleeping on the shopping district roofs, too! Oh! A question! Umm... What's your favorite triangle? Okay? Okay!
△△△
No. 8: Marshmallows
Hisoka Mikage
How r u? Kazunari said cool people abbreviate stuff. I like it. Less writing.
I apparently have to do the blog today. I like eating marshmallows, sleeping, playing with cats, people-watching, and playing darts. And acting, I guess. That's a lot more than I thought. Huh. I already told you my name. That's my self-intro.
Misumi's question was what's my favorite triangle. At work the other day, I made a marshmallow pizza. It's a dessert pizza with chocolate sauce lots of marshmallows on it. It's yummy. Pizza's round, but you cut it into triangles, so it counts, right?
Tomorrow's writer is someone who's bad at Japanese. I think. Japanese is hard, but he makes too many mistakes. But that's what makes him charming. My question is, 'What surprised you when you first came to Japan?'
No. 9: Citron's blorg special
Citron
On a 2rd yearr.
Relay blog is such good idea.
I am Sitron of Springy Troupe.
Good to meet! Greetings!
I are loving Japan!
I am finishd introdukshon.
Hisoka queschun: What surprised you when you first came to Japan? (copypaste)
It is lining up and niceness.
My next is party people?
Queshun: What roll wanting d Sprng Troop?
-Citron
No. 10: Hey Hey Hey Everybooody!
Kazunari Miyoshi
It's been almost two years since Mankai burst onto the scene, can you believe it? Time sure flies, huh? (*>A<) Is it too early to say that our plays this year are gonna be fab? Because they are!
I'm already the tenth entry on this blog relay, so I'm sure you've all got the hang of it by now. First is my self-intro: I'm Kazunari Miyoshi, resident cheerleader and one-man hype squad of the Spring Troupe! I study traditional Japanese art at art school, but graphic design is also one of my many passions. ♪ I'm in charge of designing Mankai's flyers, in case you didn't know.
Okay, now for question time! Ron-ron's blog was so stylin', it was even above my level! But I think he wanted to ask what role I'd like to play from one of the Spring Troupe's shows? Silly Ron-ron, he coulda just asked me in person! It's a little embarrassing, though, so I'll just answer here.
The role I'd wanna play is (drum roll, please!) Oswald, from The Wonderful Charlatan of Oz! I love his style, plus he's got all these cool tricks up his sleeve! Not to mention we're triple F! (AKA 'Fedora Friends Forever'!) I got a little jealous as I was making the flyers, NGL. (^^)
Ron-ron! LMK if I got your question right later!
Tomorrow's blog to-be is...tall, dark, and Bet y'all know who I'm talking about! Hands up if you do!
My question for him is this! What's something recently that just makes you go 'aww'?
Alrighty, then! Kazunari Miyoshi, out!
No. 11: Aww
Tasuku Takato
Miyoshi's a hard act to follow for Sakyo's blog relay, to be honest. I'll just introduce myself, though, I guess.
I'm Tasuku Takato of the Winter Troupe. Height: 185cm. Blood Type: A. Hobbies: Weight lifting and soccer. I also like watching kabuki plays. Nothing can beat modern theater for me, though.
I'd like to finish off the blog here, but apparently there's a rule that I have to answer the question from yesterday. Miyoshi's question was: What's something recently that just makes me go 'aww'?
I don't know if this is what he means, but I've found myself looking at the moss balls Tsumugi's been taking care of in our room a lot lately. They're these little green balls that just kind of roll around in little jars of water. Watching them is kind of... soothing? I guess? They're not puppy-level cute or anything, but they give me the same kind of warm, fuzzy feeling.
Speaking of puppies, tomorrow's post will be by someone who shares their energy levels. For him, I'd like to know what's something new he wants to take on in this next year.
Tasuku Takato, Mankai Company
No. 12: A New Taichi Nanao's Coming!
Taichi Nanao
It feels like forever since I've written one of these! I'm super excited that it's my turn to do this blog relay! So! First off, here's my self-intro!
The name's Taichi Nanao, and I was born on October 11th, National Wink Day! (^_-) I'm only 172 cm right now, but I can feel a growth spurt coming any day now! I'm really good at X-treme origami and yo-yoing! I can also skateboard! My trademark is my bright red hair, but here's a secret: It's actually dyed! Oh, and I'm part of the Autumn Troupe!
I was wondering what Tasuku would ask, and he didn't disappoint! Something I want to take on in this next year, huh? What a cool question! Trust Tasuku to stick to the classics!
This year I want to branch out and try doing stuff on my own! You know, like going to karaoke, movies, restaurants, that kind of stuff! It's always more fun with friends, but adults do stuff on their own, right? If you see me out and about doing stuff on my own, I hope I score some grown-up points in your eyes!
That's all for my blog post! Next up is Most Energetic of Mankai, with a soft spot the size of Kyushu[1] for his older brother! My question is: What's a dream that you've had recently? (^o^)v
~*Taichi Nanao*~
No. 13: Good Things to Come!
Kumon Hyodo
Thanks to everyone who supported us for all the events and performances we've done this year! I'm hoping you'll keep cheering us on!
This blog relay thing is great! It's like passing notes in class! First off-my self-intro!
Name: Kumon Hyodo (My brother is Juza Hyodo from the Autumn Troupe!)
Birthday: July 20th
Hobbies: Baseball, sportswear collecting, and trying out new ways to stay healthy Skills: Cat's cradle, breaking wooden boards with my hand (I can only break 10 right now, though)
Taichi's question was about a dream I've had recently!!!
I actually had one last night. (^o^) It was about going on a bunch of adventures with Muku! I don't remember it all that well, but I don't think it took place in a normal world. It was all magical and sparkly and kinda...fluffy? Anyway, it was really fantasy-like! I was wearing a cloak, so I must have been some cool, monster-slaying knight!
I wonder if my brother and the rest of my troupe would've shown up if I'd kept sleeping? How do I see Part 2?! (><) If anyone out there knows how to choose your dreams, let me know!
Tomorrow's question is, 'What's something bad that happened to you recently?' Answering it will be one good-looking guy! Bet you have no idea who that is since Mankai is full of them, right? Okay, you can have one more hint! He looks good in a suit! (^^) Figure it out yet? Check back next time to see if you're right!
No. 14: I Should Find an Exorcist
Itaru Chigasaki
Anyway, looks like I'm #14 in the blog relay. I'll go over the rules just in case anyone missed them. Mankai's coming up on its 2nd anniversary, so to celebrate, we actors will be blogging every day for a while, with someone new in charge of writing each day. The blog posts are going to be (1) a self-intro, and (2) the answer to a question yesterday's blogger asked.
So. On that note, here's my self-introduction. I'm Itaru Chigasaki, Spring Troupe, born April 24th. Office worker by day, actor by night. I like books and movies, and I play the occasional video game. That's about it.
Kumon asked me about something bad that happened to me recently. To be honest, I don't feel like luck's been on my side all that much lately. I won't bore you with the gruesome details, though. It started right when I got back from visiting home for the first time in a while.
Apparently, a cleaning fever swept through this place over the break, and a bunch of old, retro games we had in the storage room got sold at a flea market. Some of them were ones I remembered from when I was little, so I'd wanted to play them with everyone, but I guess it's too late now. Sigh. Maybe I'll buy us a new party game, instead.
Tomorrow's blog post is going to be by a uni student. He looks scary, but he's actually kind of precious. How's that for a hint? And he has to tell us about a time when he was really heroic.
No. 15: (Untitled)
Juza Hyodo
Itaru introduced me by sayin' I was 'precious', but I don't know what he's talkin' about. Azuma says that about me sometimes, too, though... Whatever. Anyway, I'll write my intro and answer.
I'm Hyodo Juza. I'm in the Autumn Troupe. I go to the same university as Omi and Tsuzuru. I'm no good at studyin', but I like my classes.
Itaru asked me to tell you somethin' heroic I've done. I thought about it all night, but I couldn't come up with anythin'. So I asked my little brother, Kumon, and he told me to talk about the time I caught a guy who was robbin' a store.
So there's this one time I was at a store, and there was a guy bein' mean to cashier, so I stepped in, but it turned out he was trying to rob the place. I didn't even notice the guy was holdin' a gun. Thankfully, it was just a toy, but I'll be more careful if somethin' like that happens again.
Does that count as a heroic story? Sorry if that's not what you wanted, Itaru, it's all I could come up with.
Tomorrow's post is gonna be written by someone who's always helpin' out the students in the troupe. One day I wanna be as dependable as him. My question is, if you could go back to bein' in college, what'd you wanna do?
Juza Hyodo
No. 16: College Days
Tsumugi Tsukioka
I'll get started with my self-introduction. I'm Tsumugi Tsukioka from the Winter Troupe...but I already said that, didn't I? Anyway, my hobby is gardening, and I've been tending to the garden in the dorm's courtyard and growing lots of flowers in it.
Next, for Juza's question. He wanted to know what I would want to do if I could go back to my college days. There are a lot of things I would do, but the biggest one would be to take more pictures. I'm not so good with technology, so I didn't use cameras often, even the one on my phone. But when I look at Kazunari or Omi, who take pictures of everything so they can have something physical to look back on, I've realized just how wonderful pictures are.
My time in university was full fun experiences and important milestones that helped shape my future, but I have nothing to show for them. I don't have a way to share those memories with other people, and that's really a shame.
University gives you the time to go out and do things, and as silly as they seem at the time, once you graduate, those memories will become really precious.
I know you're not one to take a lot of pictures, Juza, but get out there and do things, even stupid things, and take lots of pictures while you're at it. Sorry, I don't mean to lecture you, haha. To wrap things up, I'd like to ask a question to the future prince who will be writing tomorrow. What were the top three manga you read last year?
Thanks for reading my post, and I'll see you all soon.
No. 17: Manga Recs
Muku Sakisaka
This blog relay really is like passing notes, just like Kyuchan said! I never do that in school, so this is a lot of fun! I hope the posts are fun for you guys to read, too. I'll do my best to make my entry interesting!
First is my self-intro. My name is Muku Sakisaka, and I'm 169 cm tall. (But I want to grow at least another 10cm!) I'm an A blood type, but people tell me sometimes that I seem like an AB. (I think it's a personality thing?) My favorite food is chocolate. (Recently, I've been obsessed with this crunchy, strawberry white chocolate that they sell around here!)
Next, I'll answer Tsumugi's question, which was to name my top three manga of last year. What a tough question! I thought hard about it, and third place has to go to "Falling in Love at a Taco Stand". It's an international romance that takes place at a taco shop! Coming in second is "It's a Zebra! It's a Giraffe! No, It's True Love!" I can still quote some of the okapi exhibit worker's smooth lines by heart!
And it was really hard to choose, but my number one manga of last year was "Strawberry Drops". The plot twists just kept coming, and I was constantly on the edge of my seat reading it! All the desserts in the pictures look so yummy you could just eat them right off the pages, too!
Tomorrow's post will be written by a really stylish guy who knows everything there is to know about beauty! I have a two-part question: What kind makeup do you want to try most, and who would you want to try it on?
Thanks for reading, and tune in again tomorrow to see his answer!
No. 18: Makeup I Want to Try
Azami Izumida
I'll start with my self-intro. Azami Izumida, 3rd year middle schooler. B blood type. I'm in the Autumn Troupe and in charge of hair and makeup at Mankai.
Muku asked what kind makeup I wanted to try and who I wanted as a model. There are a lot of different face types at Mankai, so there are a lot of things I want to experiment with, but if I had to choose, I think I'd like to work on Citron and Guy.
They have really distinct features I don't normally get to work with, so it'd be fun to experiment with different looks on them. I'd want to try adding glittery eyeshadow on them and accentuate their eyes with thick, winged liner. To make things pop, I'd go with a vivid lip color. Basically, I want to try out super intense makeup on them at least once.
Another thing I'd like to try is putting the guys in wigs and more feminine clothing. I would round out their transformation with more natural-looking and subtle makeup. The final test for my skills would be to have them walk around Veludo and see if anyone realizes they're actually men.
Body-wise, Tsumugi, Itaru, and Kazunari would make good models, but I could go with Tsuzuru or Tasuku if I wanted a challenge. Maybe I'll give that a shot someday.
That's all for my blog post. Tomorrow is someone really unique. My question is: What kind of hairstyles do you want to try?
No. 19: Lovely Locks
Homare Arisugawa
I received my vaccination the other day and was told I 'took it like a champ'. The nurse gave me a free mandarin orange after the ordeal. No doubt it was a contrivance to prevent children from crying, and adults are treated the same so that the little ones do not feel looked down upon. Such kindness. Such compassion! My heart's central heating is on at full blast!
Now then, shall I begin the 19th blog relay post?
I am Homare Arisugawa of the Winter Troupe, a writer by trade.
My question from young Azami was about hairstyles I would like to try, I believe. Hmm... This is indeed a tricky question, for you see, I have only ever had but one hairstyle ever since my youth. Not that I have never considered changing my image. When the well of inspiration suffers drought, I occasionally think to myself to freshen up my head-hair and all!
If I were to make a change, I think Muku's hairstyle would be a topping option. Pink cotton candy hair would certainly change up my style! And the asymmetry of the curl is just similar enough to my current hair that I would not feel too lost at sea.
That said, I intend to live with this 'kitty-corner wine hair', as Yuki calls it, atop my head for years-nay, decades! -to come. Consider it my little quirk, if you will.
Oh my, how I've rambled. I shall pass the baton to our resident dramatist. For my question, how does, 'Which of our plays would you like to write a sequel to?' sound?
No. 20: After Happily Ever After
Tsuzuru Minagi
I hope everyone's enjoying this blog relay. I've been learning some surprising things and seeing new sides from everyone through this relay. Before I knew it, I was checking for new posts every day, too.
Okay, time for my introduction. I'm Tsuzuru Minagi, a college student and part of the Spring Troupe. My birthday is April 9th, if anyone's interested. I'm also in charge of writing the scripts for the Mankai Company.
On which note, Homare asked which of my scripts I would want to write a sequel to, which is a really hard question. There are so many scripts that I love, and so many that I have really fond memories of. I can't choose just one, but I don't think I'm allowed to answer 'all of them'...
If we're talking about adding on to a story to improve it, then I'd have to say Romeo and Julius, the Spring Troupe's first show. For a first ever real script, it's pretty good, but looking back on it, I can see how clumsily put together it is. Now that I'm older and more experienced, I feel like I'd be able to bring justice to the story of Romeo and Julius' journey together. There are still a bunch of other things I want to write, though, so I don't know if or when I'll get to write their sequel, but if I ever get the chance, it would be fun.
Let's see, a hint about who's in charge of tomorrow's post... He's really close to Citron. And as a playwright, I feel like I have to ask what kind of play he would like to do next.
See you all at our next show!
-Tsuzuru Minagi
No. 21: Guy's blorg: speshall
Guy
I had intended to title my own entry, as it is apart from our normal schedule, but Citronia was very insistent on penning it for me. Yet again he uses words that I have yet to learn or comprehend, but I have no doubt it is a carefully thought-out title.
I am to begin with a self-introduction, I believe. My name is Guy. I am originally from the country of Zafra but have joined this company as a member of the Winter Troupe. Recently, I have begun studying cooking. I am still just beginning, but my food has begun to look more edible recently.
Now I shall answer Minagi's question. 'What type of play would I like to be in next', was it? I am not sure I have any right to give my opinion as I am still relatively new to the troupe, but perhaps it is simply my lucky day.
In the Winter Troupe's fifth play, I played the role of a samurai, and I have gained an interest in Japanese history ever since. I read a book about many eras with Citronia, and the Heian era struck my particular interest. The refined yet extravagant garb and decoration, the unique culture... I would not mind being in a play set in such an era. I am also fond of the Shinsengumi and Byakkotai in Japanese history. I must learn from Citronia's example and study more Japanese culture.
I hope this was a suitable entry for the blog relay.
Tomorrow's writer is someone who apparently once claimed to be living his life in 'super ultra easy mode', if I may quote. A vibrant youth, if there ever was one. I hear that Japanese universities have many extracurricular clubs, so my question will be: What clubs are you interested in?
Guy, Winter Troupe
No. 22: Clubs
Banri Settsu
Anyway, let's get this self-intro over with: Banri Settsu, Autumn Troupe leader. B blood type. I'm studyin' theater at uni right now.
Guy asked yesterday what clubs I was interested in. I was never in clubs or anythin' in grade school, so I wanted to join at least one in college, but none of 'em really jumped out at me. The board game club sounded kinda fun, but their meetings're actually pretty long, and they meet a lot, so it'd cut into rehearsal time. Not worth it.
Wish there was a more laid-back kinda club that wouldn't bore me to death. Anybody got any suggestions? My school's got some weird-ass clubs, so we probably got all the normal ones, too.
I think that's a good enough post. Tomorrow you're gettin' a blog post from Mankai's costume overlord. My question for him is this: What's a costume you wanna try making this year?
Later.
No. 23: Second to Last
Yuki Rurikawa
Self-introduction:
Yuki Rurikawa, O blood type. Born July 8th. Currently a freshman in high school. Current obsession: waffles.
Banri asked what costume I'd like to make this year, huh? I've got a long list, but costumes that look like street clothes are at the top of it. You know, playing with colors and patterns and accessories to make everyday styles pop on stage.
I also wanna try my hand at some really intricate detailing. I wanna get better at using thermoplastics and stuff this year, too. Maybe I should make Kazunari introduce me to someone at his school who's good at that kind of thing.
Tomorrow's blog is the last one of the relay. There's only one of us who hasn't gone yet, so you should know who it is. We all pulled lots to decide who would write the final post, and it was actually supposed to be me. I talked with Banri, though, and we both thought this order would be more fitting.
I'll make him talk about what he wants to focus on this upcoming year at Mankai. As the leader of the Spring Troupe and honorary Mankai mascot, you should be able to answer that, right, Energy Concentrate?[2]
No. 24: Two Whole Years!
Sakuya Sakuma
This is going to be the last post of the blog relay that Sakyo started. It feels like we just started yesterday, but I hope you've enjoyed reading all the posts! I'm a little sad that it's ending, but I'll try to make this last post just as good as all the others have been.
So, for my self-introduction! I'm Sakuya Sakuma, leader of the Spring Troupe. I only started acting when I joined Mankai, so I still have a long ways to go in terms of experience and skill, but I really, really love acting! I love the Mankai Company too, so I'm going to keep working harder and harder to improve!
Yuki's question for me was about the coming year at Mankai and what I want to focus on. I actually talked with everyone about it, and we all had the same feelings, so I'd like to answer for everyone if that's okay.
Last year there were a lot of changes around here. Many of us graduated and entered new schools, and we even gained four new members!
In the middle of all that change, there was one thing we all felt. We wanted to continue on like this forever, but we knew that's not possible. That's why we want to focus on living every moment so that we don't have any regrets! It's just like being on stage-there are no take-backs. And of course, we all want to put this year of experience into making Mankai even greater!
If we've gotten this far, it's because of all the support, love, and solidarity we've had from each other, and from you all. We'll all be working our hardest until the final curtain call! And so, to my precious family at Mankai, and to all of our beloved fans, I wish you a happy second anniversary! Let's treasure each and every moment!
Thank you all!
November[]
Halloween Makeup
Azami Izumida
I was in charge of the troupe members' makeup for Halloween. I did it all in one go, so I got a good feel for the differences in skin types and how each face would take to makeup. Above all else, though, it was a great chance to see who's been slacking off in their skincare regime.
Obviously, Azuma and Yuki were on top of their game, but there were some people with surprisingly good skin, too. This guy was one of them.
Banri snapped this pic while I was putting makeup on him. Since he's got the oldest and roughest skin in the Autumn Troupe, I sent him to Azuma for skincare advice way back when. I guess that really lit a fire under his ass.
Well, since we have this picture and all, I might as well post it up before he catches me.