JQ Magazine: Nippon in New York – Long Island TCG Show, The Music of John Williams, ‘Naruto: The Symphonic Experience’
By JQ magazine editor Justin Tedaldi (CIR Kobe-shi, 2001-02). Justin has written about Japanese arts and entertainment for JETAA since 2005. For more of his articles, click here.
As spring continues and the weather continues to warm, New Yorkers can enjoy activities all over the city both indoors and out.
This month’s highlights include:
Courtesy of Litcgshow.com
May 3-4
Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike (Uniondale)
$15-$100
The Long Island TCG Show is a highly anticipated event for all TCG (Trading Card Game) enthusiasts. Vendors from all over the region will be selling an impressive selection of TCG products, including Pokémon cards, Yu-Gi-Oh cards, Magic: The Gathering cards, and more! At the Long Island TCG Show, attendees can explore a vast array of TCG merchandise, from the latest booster packs to rare and unique finds. Connect with other TCG enthusiasts to discuss your favorite games, cards, and strategies with other like-minded individuals who share your passion. Special guests include Chuck Huber (Dragon Ball series), Dante Basco (Avatar: The Last Airbender), and Veronica Taylor (Pokémon, Sailor Moon). Don't miss out on the opportunity to discover both modern and vintage TCG products and connect with fellow enthusiasts at this highly anticipated event!
Courtesy of Nyphil.org
May 7-9, 7:30 p.m.
Wu Tsai Theater, David Geffen Hall, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza
From $68
David Newman leads the NY Phil in a program that highlights the storytelling power of John Williams's unforgettable soundtracks. Join us to celebrate the music behind your favorite movie moments — Hedwig soaring above the Hogwarts grounds, Indiana Jones saving the Ark of the Covenant, Elliott riding his bike through the sky with E.T., and many more! ABOUT THE ARTISTS: David Newman is an accomplished conductor and creator of music for film. In his 30-year career he has scored more than 110 films, ranging from War of the Roses, Matilda, Bowfinger, and Heathers to Girls Trip, Night School, and Serenity. His music has brought to life the critically acclaimed dramas Brokedown Palace and Hoffa; comedies Galaxy Quest and Throw Momma from the Train; and award-winning animated films Ice Age, The Brave Little Toaster, and his Academy Award–nominated score to Anastasia. American soprano Diana Newman brings fresh and intense performances to opera houses and concert stages across the United States and Europe. Her 2024–25 season highlights include the North American premiere of Missy Mazzoli’s The Listeners with Opera Philadelphia in the role of Danica, her Atlanta Opera debut as Erste Dame in Mozart’s The Magic Flute, and Bernstein’s Symphony No. 3, Kaddish, with the Orchestra of St. Luke’s conducted by James Conlon.
©I・K/AMPC
Friday, May 9, 5:30 p.m.
Japan Night Reception & Concert
Edison Ballroom, 240 West 47th Street
$75-$125
Celebrating this year’s Japan Parade and Street Fair the following day featuring Grand Marshal Masaharu Morimoto (Iron Chef), the launch of Japan Night allows more artists, performers, and companies to showcase their expressions of modern and traditional Japanese culture. The evening will begin with a reception and sake tasting including MIO Sparkling Sake by Takara Sake USA Inc. with hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine. An exciting concert hosted by NBC news correspondent Emilie Ikeda will follow. Scheduled to perform are the cast of ATTACK on TITAN: The Musical; MIYABI Koto Shamisen Ensemble, led by renowned Japanese koto player Masayo Ishigure; a visual presentation of traditional Japanese crafts presented by title sponsor ASP Group; and closing in spectacular fashion, a live performance by Sayaka Yamamoto, singer-songwriter and former captain of the pop idol group NMB48.
Courtesy of Narutoinconcert.com
Sunday, May 11, 2:00 p.m.
Naruto: The Symphonic Experience
Kings Theatre, 1027 Flatbush Avenue (Brooklyn)
From $49
Naruto: The Symphonic Experience is a live concert that brings the beloved anime to life on a grand scale. This two-hour event features a film montage of iconic scenes from over 220 episodes, synchronized to a live orchestra performing Toshio Masuda’s original score. Fans will relive Naruto Uzumaki’s journey to become Hokage, facing rivalries, challenges, and growth along the way. The orchestra performs not only Masuda’s unforgettable soundtrack but also the series' most famous openings and endings, inviting the audience to sing along with the music they love. This interactive element draws fans closer to Naruto, celebrating the powerful, shared bond the music creates. Whether you’re a devoted fan or new to the series, Naruto: The Symphonic Experience offers an exclusive, unforgettable way to celebrate Naruto’s epic journey and music in a truly one-of-a-kind setting.
For more JQ articles, click here.