​Atago Jinja, located in the heart of Tokyo, is a shrine rich in greenery and has a serene yet mystical atmosphere. Acting as the oasis ​​of the city, it enshrines the God of fire prevention, who has been protecting the city since the Edo period. Here, performance “CROSSOVER 2021 Stage” took place, dedicated to the God in hopes for an early end to the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide. 

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Too many people have passed away due to the disease, leaving many more hurt and exhausted. With “INORI -Prayer-” as the main theme of the performance, it is a message of healing and hope towards the world, praying that the ones in despair find peace within and strength to overcome.

The performance combines four aspects of Japanese culture; “KO -Drums-”, “MAI -Dance-”, “HANA -Flower arrangement-” and “OTO -Sound-”. Each is represented by one of Japan’s leading artists in that field, with“KO -Drums-” represented by Japanese Drum player Taishi Yamabe, who is said to be a talent found once in fifty years. Dancer ATSUSHI, who represents “MAI -Dance-”, is a genre of his own, expressing ‘prayers’ and ‘life’ through his dynamic moves, while “HANA -Flower arrangement-” is represented by florist Ryota Hagiwara, who is known for bringing Japanese flowers to life in a new way through his energetic live performances. Representing “OTO -Sound-” is music producer Sakura Tsuruta, who graduated at the top of her class from Berklee College of Music in Music Therapy and Electronic Production and Design.