In spring 2024, Ryohei Kondo, artistic director at Saitama Arts Theater, announced an open audition for a new project, attracting more than 850 applicants and leading to the creation of the ambitious and diverse dance theater troupe Company Grande. The group embodies the Saitama Arts Foundation's ethos of 'art for all' by including members from all ages, walks of life, and abilities.
At Saitama Arts Theater, artistic director Ryohei Kondo announced an open audition for a new project in spring 2024, receiving more than 850 applications. This overwhelming response prompted Kondo to reflect: “The sheer number of applications made me rethink — why not try to make something on a larger scale?” As a result, the ambitiously large and remarkably diverse dance theater troupe Company Grande was established.
The group includes members from all ages, walks of life, and abilities, demonstrating that the stage can serve as an arena for amateurs, persons with disabilities, and the elderly. It aligns with the Saitama Arts Foundation’s ethos of “art for all,” exploring 100 ways to belong through radical inclusivity.
Keywords associated with the initiative include Company Grande, Saitama Arts Theater, Ryohei Kondo, SAITAMA, and DANCE. The story was covered by The Japan Times on March 8, 2026.
