The 3rd IR Study Session organized by the Japanese IR Association was held at the first meeting hall of the House of Representatives in Tokyo on Wednesday. The study session is a program for house members and local governments who are actively seeking an IR bid. The venue was much bigger than the previous iteration and it was observed that even more participants had come to listen intently to the information being given.
There were presentations given by MGM Resorts VP Amy Chai, Melco Resorts EVP and Chief Marketing and Brand Officer Frederic Winckler, and Shochiku Co., Ltd Managing Director Tetsuya Okazaki. Each spoke about potential entertainment concepts for a Japanese IR.
Okazaki, whose company has received positive reviews for its Kabuki theater performances with MGM in Las Vegas, said, “It is important to merge Japan’s traditional arts, such as Kabuki, with cutting-edge technology to make something dynamic and beautiful.
“It also needs to be easy to understand (for both foreigners and modern Japanese). In addition, by utilizing projection mapping and through a partnership with NTT, we have been able to utilize “kirari” – an immersive telepresence technology that delivers an unprecedented realistic experience that can be broadcast across the globe live. We hope to use this to provide an immersive entertainment experience.”
Chai ran through the history of MGM’s entertainment in Las Vegas including Cirque de Soleil, the Jabbawockeez, boxing and NHL among other sports events.
Noting the company’s Kabuki theater cooperation with Shochiku, she said, “We want to respect Japan’s culture and uniqueness as we bring it to other cultures for them to enjoy.”
Melco’s Winckler said there “needs to be a set of rules to create and provide entertainment that dominates the world.”
There are, he said, seven rules including “something that the audience can participate with and experience”, “entertainment with a local focus” and “next-generation technology.” In addition, he stressed that, “A Japanese IR should focus on Japan. It doesn’t have to be traditional, but it needs to be tailored to the audience.”
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