The fifth installment of the Demon Slayer stage play series, Demon Slayer Stage Play Part 5: Assault on the Swordsmith Village, premiered on April 11 at Tennozu Galaxy Theatre in Tokyo. This new production brings to life the fierce battles that unfold as Tanjiro and his allies fight to protect the hidden village of swordsmiths from an onslaught of Upper Rank demons.

A major highlight of this production is the powerful on-screen appearance of Kokushibo and Doma, portrayed by Kazuki Kato and Kenji Urai respectively—both making their debut in the stage series. Their presence culminates in a dramatic sequence featuring the Upper Ranks united, marking a key moment in the performance.

Additionally, Shohei Hashimoto takes on the role of Tanjiro Kamado, replacing Shogo Sakamoto, while Yojiro Itokawa plays Zohakuten Hantengu. The manga series Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, originally serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from February 2016 to May 2020, has exceeded 150 million copies in circulation. Set in the Taisho era, it follows young Tanjiro who joins the Demon Slayer Corps to avenge his family and save his demon-transformed sister, Nezuko.

The franchise began with the 2019 anime adaptation Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc, followed by the record-breaking Mugen Train film in October 2020. Subsequent arcs, Entertainment District Arc (2021), Swordsmith Village Arc (2023), and Hashira Training Arc (2024), have continued its popularity. The upcoming Infinity Castle Arc film trilogy is set for release in 2025.

Script & Direction by Tsuneyasu Motoyoshi

“We've kept this going, linked hand in hand, and at last, the curtain rises. We’re blessed with an extraordinary original story and a truly exceptional cast. 'Swordsmith Village' is a tale filled with questions about what it means to live as a human. With the Upper Ranks attacking and Tanjiro fighting back, the battles grow more intense and varied. As the story blooms and approaches its climax, I hope everyone—audiences included—will face it together. This stage, created by all of us, is something I hope you’ll enjoy.”

Shohei Hashimoto as Tanjiro Kamado

“Originally, this message was to be delivered by Shogo Sakamoto, but I humbly offer these words in his stead. In rehearsals, led by Motoyoshi-san, we embraced the theme of 'connection' and carried it through to today. While saying it might be simple, this cast truly embodies that word with genuine resolve.

Shogo-san must have felt immense frustration this time. Even so, he supported us by watching rehearsal footage and attending full run-throughs in person. Despite the hardship, his unwavering support gave us incredible strength. It’s rare to find a team this warm—where one stands for all, and all stand for one. To protect the place Shogo holds, to honor everyone's efforts, I’ve poured all I have into this role. Opening night once felt daunting, but now I stand with a powerful team and a performance we’ve polished to the highest level. All I can say is—please look forward to it.”

Karen Takahashi as Nezuko Kamado

“I’m truly happy to be able to share this story with everyone. Facing the world of Demon Slayer, and bonding with Nezuko and her brother during rehearsals, has been an intense and joyful experience. The Demon Slayer Corps versus the demons. Those who embrace change versus those who cling to stasis. Nezuko stands between them. I will give my all to express her feelings with sincerity. With the bonds and love passed down from the first stage play, I will carefully carry this forward, hand in hand with my two brothers and the entire cast. We look forward to seeing you at the theater.”

Yoshihide Sasaki as Muzan Kibutsuji

“Thanks to the continued support of everyone who follows our stage productions, we’ve now reached Part 5 since the premiere of the first Demon Slayer play in 2020. Thank you so much. Finally, we arrive at the Swordsmith Village story. In terms of the manga, this marks the beginning of the second half. Until now, we’ve seen numerous stories of Demon Slayers and demons risking their lives. Carrying all those stories and the cast’s emotions, as the original demon, I intend to bridge the way to the latter half. I hope this production reaches everyone who loves Demon Slayer. Please look forward to it.”

Source : ORICON NEWS