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Shingo Misawa performance at LA
-A Story of Chiune “Senpo” Sugihara-

Did you know about the fact that one person’s determination saved 6,000 lives?
Did you ever notice a bronze statue at the corner of 2nd Street and Central Ave in the Little Tokyo district of Los Angeles? This statue honors Chiune “Senpo” Sugihara, a diplomat. A theatrical monologue that honors his life will start in February in Los Angeles.  
This monologue highlights the conflicts and courageous decision of Chiune “Senpo” Sugihara, a diplomat of the Japanese Consulate in Lithuania who single-handedly issued Transit Visas to Jews who attempted to escape persecution by Nazi Germany during World War II, saving 6,000 lives as a result.
Actor Shingo Misawa, starring as Sugihara in this monologue was presented the “Eleanor Roosevelt Award” by the United Nations Association USA Pacific Los Angeles Chapter on December 10, designated by the United Nations as Human Rights Day. The “Eleanor Roosevelt Award” is presented to an honoree for his / her significant contribution to improve human rights of others. The award ceremony was held in front of the bronze statue of Sugihara, where we asked Misawa about the process of his encounter with Chiune Sugihara to his performance.

-How did you meet Chiune Sugihara?
Misawa: When I was filming a TV drama in Australia, I noticed how the Japan is viewed by Australians as a country that is a part of Asia, similar to China and Korea. I asked myself, “What production by Japan can the world identify with?” Then, I thought of a TV program I saw about Chiune Sugihara and thought to myself, “This is it.”

-What is the theme of this monologue?
Misawa: Chiune Sugihara is repeatedly conflicted about whether he should defy the government to issue visas and save the lives of Jews, or if he should prioritize the safety of his family and himself. At the end, he chooses the act of love without fearing danger. I believe all people harbor love, sadness, fear, affection, and hatred in life. By selecting which emotions to harbor, one can change his / her life dramatically. Through my monologue, I want to focus on the human mind and the human condition, torn between conflict and the preciousness of love.

-When and how long will your monologue be performed?
Misawa: The monologue will be performed in Los Angeles from late February and March. There will be a total of 6 performances at the Aratani Japan America Theater.
Over 40 performances were held in Japan before Sugihara’s death at age 86, we strive to have 1000 performances. I want our audience to receive our message about the courage to make the right decision and the importance of love.


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