SKE48 Idols Take Center Stage in 'If My Favorite Pop Idol Made it to the Budokan, I Would Die' Stage Play

Prepare for an electrifying fusion of idol culture and compelling storytelling as Auri Hirao's beloved manga, 'If My Favorite Pop Idol Made it to the Budokan, I Would Die' (Oshi ga Budōkan Ittekuretara Shinu), makes its highly anticipated transition to the stage. A recent official video offered fans a tantalizing glimpse, unveiling the star-studded cast and striking visual elements for the upcoming stage play, set to captivate audiences in February 2026 across prestigious venues in Aichi Prefecture and Tokyo.

In a brilliant casting move that promises to elevate the authenticity of the performance, the production proudly features active members of the renowned Japanese idol group SKE48. This strategic choice ensures a vibrant blend of genuine idol charisma with the dramatic narrative, truly bringing the world of 'Oshi ga Budōkan' to life.

Leading the ensemble is Aika Kobayashi, who steps into the shoes of Eripiyo, the fiercely devoted fan whose unwavering dedication drives the story. Joining her are fellow SKE48 talents Kaho Satō, Rika Aoki, Miyo Nomura, Miyu Nakasaka, Yūne Hara, Ami Kurashima, and Anzu Omura, all embodying key characters from the fictional idol group ChamJam. Their combined presence is poised to deliver an immersive and unforgettable theatrical experience, deeply rooted in the heart of idol fandom.

The original manga, a sensation since its serialization began in 2015, has already sold over one million copies and continues to resonate with readers worldwide. It charmingly chronicles Eripiyo's poignant and often hilarious obsession with Maina Ichii, a shy underground idol whose aspirational journey to perform at the legendary Budokan arena forms the emotional core of this heartwarming narrative.

The franchise's impressive multimedia footprint also includes a critically acclaimed 2020 anime adaptation by studio Eight Bit, which garnered a global audience through Funimation, and a successful live-action film that premiered in May 2023. This latest stage reinterpretation is eagerly awaited, promising a faithful yet fresh take on a cherished story, propelled by the dynamic performances of SKE48, and celebrating the enduring magic and humor inherent in the world of idol devotion.