Writer and director Makoto Ueda of Europe Kikaku, who is teaming up with Ito for the first time on stage, said of the script, "I wrote it honestly, with the intention of making every page into a legend." The work is a comedy set on a spaceship that samples various science fiction works. Ito, who has inspired the creative desire of creators with his unparalleled expressiveness, has been selected as the partner to create this legend.
"I grew up watching 'Back to the Future' and 'Thunderbirds' with my movie-loving family, so I love science fiction. I worked with Ueda on the science fiction romantic comedy drama 'Don't Leap Through Time, Lovers,' and even then I felt we were on the same wavelength. I'm happy to be involved in the worldview that Ueda creates, in which the everyday becomes extraordinary in an instant."
"There are a lot of props in this production, and the handmade feel is fun. In the scene where we are attacked by aliens, I acted by pulling a prop doll by a string (laughs). It's a production where grown-ups goof around with all their might, and I think it's a production that will bring you back to your childhood, so I'm sure the audience will enjoy it and forget about their daily lives."
In this work, Ito's "poetry-filled rap" explodes. Regarding her clear, strong voice with a unique intonation and rhythm, she says, "Even when I was in the group (Nogizaka46), I was often praised for my singing and voice, but I kept thinking, 'What is so good about this voice?'"
"But when I analyzed myself, I realized that this 'wavering' in my voice is a distinctive feature. If I can harmonize this unstable wavering with the production, my co-stars, and the staff, there will undoubtedly be moments when I break through. If my voice has any appeal, it's thanks to the people around me who have brought it out. I can't change this voice now, so I've come to think that it would be great if it could suit just one person."
Ito has styled his own photo books, held solo exhibitions, and demonstrated his creative talents, but when asked if he was interested in directing video works or plays, he immediately shook his head.
"I'm the type of person who can't concentrate on one thing and always wants to do a lot of different things, so I don't think I could do a job like a director. Also, as I approach 30, my ego of wanting to 'express my feelings' has calmed down. I think the explosive expressions I've had up until now were only possible because I was young. Right now, I want to feel safe rather than seeking stimulation (laughs).
I've been able to think this way because I've worked so hard up until now and have met creators and friends I respect. I love coming up with ideas and I'm interested in producing, so now is the time for me to work hard on the job in front of me."
Marika Ito, 29 years old. Having tamed her ego and become more flexible, she was at the beginning of something new.
