Bird Theatre Company Tottori 鳥の劇場

Located next to the castle ruins in the historic town of Shikano, the Bird Theatre occupies the buildings of a closed down kindergarten and elementary school. The majority of the refurbishment work was done in-house and much of the administrative space retains the original character of the nursery school. The main theater area, which can seat up to 200 patrons, is a converted gymnasium and has a wonderful and intimate atmosphere.

The theater staff welcomes visitors at any time of the year and will happily show you around if time permits. Basic Japanese is beneficial, but not essential. Admission may be limited to residents of Japan or Tottori Prefecture to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The nearest train station is Hamamura on the JR Sanin Main Line.

Take the “Shikano-yuki” bus from Hamamura Station in around 20 minutes and then walk for around 10 minutes. The Bird Theatre is situated next to the castle ruins. Free buses run from Tottori and Hamamura stations during the festival. Please check with the theater directly for further details.

Much of the company's focus is on establishing the theater as a cultural center of the local community through its educational and outreach programs. In 2008, it hosted the Bird Theatre Festival for the first time. The yearly event features companies from around Japan and from overseas and is garnering more and more interest, both locally and internationally, as it continues to grow.

The Bird Theatre Festival is held on three consecutive weekends each September. Other performances can be enjoyed approximately four times a year. iPod translators can be borrowed by non-Japanese speakers.

The latest information may differ, so please check the official website.