The Kumamoto Prefectural Theater first opened in 1982. It consists of two theatres, the Concert Hall and the Performance Hall.
The theatre closed in April of 2016 due to the effects of the Kumamoto earthquake, but there was no critical damage to the structure, and after the safety of the building was confirmed the theatre was reopened four months later. The precious art pieces performed here helped soothe the hearts of the people of Kumamoto, who had been so distressed by the earthquake.
In order to allow the audience to listen to the highest possible quality sound, ever sort of machinery which makes noise, such as the heating and cooling system, was placed underneath the floor to help soundproof it. The angle of the inner walls was also adjusted, carefully calculated to provide the perfect resonance while also retaining the look designed for the space.
The audience seating was designed by the architect Kunio Maekawa. The wooden components of the seats are made from the wood of the rosebud cherry tree, the fine grain of which lends them an elegant air. The back panel is gently curved, seeming almost to hug the cushioning. The armrests between the seats are slightly angled upwards as they reach outwards, which gives a stable, balances feel when used. The very end of the armrests are then angled down where the fingers rest, for a gentle feel against the skin.
The upholstery of the cushions was also an original design. Threads are specially dyed before a curving pattern of vertical lines is woven with a traditional Japanese technique known as kasuri. This pattern is inspired by the traditional Edo-era pattern known as Yoshihara Tsunagi, and in addition to the upholstery, the design is also reflected in the tiles which stretch from outside the building to the lobby, and continue to the foyer, giving the entire space a sense of unity.
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