September 18, 2026

Japanese Communist Party Secretariat Head Koike Akira (Senate) attended a reception following the general meeting of an organization of artists held at a Tokyo hotel on September 16.

The organization is comprised of 43 performing arts groups, including orchestras, opera companies, ballet companies, theater companies, and rakugo performers.

Well-known cellist Tsuyoshi Tsutsumi, who heads the organization, delivered the opening remarks. Speaking to approximately 100 Dietmembers in attendance, Tsutsumi called for an increase in the cultural budget.

Koike in his speech said, “The Cultural Affairs Agency has significantly increased its budget request for the current fiscal year. However, the increase is primarily focused on supporting the content industry. The JCP will continue to demand that more budget be allocated to support the performing arts.”

Regarding the National Theater, which primarily staged Kabuki and Bunraku (puppet theater), Koike said, “It has been three years since the National Theater closed for reconstruction due to the aging of the building. Our party will strive to ensure that the government takes responsibility for rebuilding it as soon as possible.”