Ichiko AobaEsplanade Theatres on the Bay 17:00
If your playlist’s been feeling a bit same-same lately, Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is about to fix that. From February to April 2026, the waterfront icon rolls out a culture-stuffed run of concerts and performances that shine a spotlight on Japanese music, with a few glorious curveballs thrown in for good measure.
First up, singer-songwriter Ichiko Aoba (February 22) returns to the Mosaic Music Series after selling out in 2024, joined by an ensemble of musicians led by composer Taro Umebayashi. On the other end of the sonic spectrum, Grammy award-winning jazz virtuoso Hiromi is back with her dynamic four-piece Sonicwonder (March 17), a high-voltage, genre-hopping set that’s brainy and bonkers in the best way.
Add in the peerless harmonies of Grammy and Emmy-award winners The King’s Singers (March 14), plus the enchanting vocals of Disney Legend and musical theatre royalty Lea Salonga (March 20 to 22), and you’re looking at a season packed with wow-factor performances across genres.
There’s also something special for theatre lovers: End of the World and Hard-boiled Wonderland (April 3 to 5), a one-of-a-kind stage adaptation based on Haruki Murakami’s cult novel, which sees two parallel narratives alternating between a cyberpunk world and a surrealistic virtual fantasy world. The star-studded cast includes Tatsuya Fujiwara, known for his roles in Battle Royale and Death Note.
Classical fans, you’re covered too. The legendary NHK Symphony Orchestra (April 29) makes a rare appearance after 24 years, promising a night of precision, power and piano passages worthy of standing ovations.
Whether you’re deep into the Japanese music scene or just keen to discover something new, this is your cue to book early and brag later. Find out more and secure your tickets here.
