okay, so i've seen an actual muscle musical show in Tokyo ("The Gift") and was super excited that they offered another performance here in the US. Both shows are quite similar but Matsuri was about an hour shorter than the Gift - which makes sense since ticket prices were cheaper for Matsuri.
Matsuri is kind of like a Japanese Variety Show. Some may get confused because it has the word "musical" in its title, but in actuality there is really no singing or much dialogue in the whole show. The only dialogue is the audience participation that the performers engage in - yes folks, when they clap towards the audience...they want you to clap as well! When they start moving into the audience area and dance in front of you, they WANT you to mimic the moves! They're all about entertaining YOU and getting you involved in the fun as well. That's the awesome thing about this show, the cast is full of so much energy and it just starts to rub off on the audience as well. When hubby and I watched it, I think the audience didn't understand what the cast was trying to do.
My hubby and I love the Japanese culture so we were thoroughly entertained by Matsuri. Did I wish it was an hour longer like "the Gift?" HECK YEAH! From the energetic music, the crazy acrobatics from the performers, and the smiling faces of the cast -you just can't help leaving without a smile on your face=).
As for seating, well...if you want to see the performers up close and their facial expressions then go for the VIP seating in the very front. Long rows of tables shared with other patrons - though you will have to adjust your seat accordingly to avoid that stiff neck! There's also booth seating and more tables behind the VIP seats - these are good too because you get to see the whole stage and take it all in. No matter what seats you pick, you still get a good view of the show. Check out Goldstar also for some discounted tickets! I think we paid about $75-$80 for the table seating up front.
Go see Matsuri now!!!!!!