The Connection Inspired by Carmen

Yesterday, I had the honor of being invited by my longtime friend Mario Rojas to attend the dress rehearsal of Carmen at the Hyogo Performing Arts Center.

Mario performed the leading role of Don José, and I was truly captivated by the power and emotion of his performance.

It was my very first time experiencing opera, and I was deeply moved by the harmony of the magnificent singing, the orchestra, and the stage production. It was an unforgettable experience.

After the performance, Mario kindly invited me backstage, where I had the privilege of meeting Yutaka Sado, conductor and Artistic Director of the Hyogo Performing Arts Center, Tetsuya Oguri, the producer, and Yurie Takano, who performed the role of Carmen.

I also learned that the Hyogo Performing Arts Center was established as part of the recovery efforts following the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. I must admit I hadn't known that before. It made me appreciate even more that such a remarkable cultural venue exists here in the Kansai region, and it is certainly a place I hope to visit again.

One of the happiest moments for me was hearing that Mario has been wearing his Y'2 LEATHER Indigo Horse Type 1 Jacket not only in his daily life but also while traveling to performances around the world.

Although our professions are different, I was deeply inspired by the passion, dedication, and professionalism of everyone involved in creating such an extraordinary production.

The official performances begin on July 17, and I was told that every performance has already sold out.

I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to experience such an exceptional performance.

Above all, I would like to express my deepest respect to the performers, musicians, production staff, and everyone involved in bringing this remarkable production to audiences here in Japan.

Through leather jackets, I continue to be grateful for the wonderful connections they have brought into my life. Experiences like this remind me to take even greater pride in our craftsmanship and encourage us to continue creating products worthy of those connections.