Since its debut in 2003, Death Note has become a cult classic. Written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata, the series has become a well-known franchise centered around the Death Notes, notebooks that kill those whose names are written on their pages. Following Light Yagami, a student who becomes known globally as Kira, aims to rid the world of criminals, while L, a world-renowned detective, is determined to uncover his identity.

Now, the story is returning to the stage through Death Note: The Musical this November to mark its 10th anniversary. In a post from Death Note: The Musical's official X , the musical's cast was confirmed alongside a November release window. Featuring music by American composer Frank Wildhorn and lyrics by Jack Murphy, the production first premiered in 2015 with widespread critical acclaim.

Death Note the Musical Is Set To Return to the Stage in November

Fans of Death Note: The Musical Are Thrilled for the 10th Anniversary Announcement

The 10th anniversary staging of Death Note: The Musical is generating significant buzz among anime fans. Two familiar faces are set to return to the stage this November. Megumi Hamada is set to reprise her role as the shinigami, Rem, and Kenji Urai, who originally played Light Yagami, is returning as Ryuk, the shinigami who kicked off the story. As the show approaches, anticipation among fans is rising, and audiences eagerly await the chance to enjoy this beloved musical once again. With these two cast back on stage, fans can expect a fantastic production.

ing these familiar faces are several new cast : the double casting of Kato Seishiro and Ao Watanabe as Light Yagami, Hiroki Miura as L, Riho Sayashi as Misa Amane, Riko from the J-pop group HUNNY BEE as Sayu Yagami, and last but not least, Kiyotaka Imai as Sōichirō Yagami. With a talented cast working alongside production veterans, it’s clear that Death Note: The Musical will deliver a performance that honors the legacy of the original while bringing fresh energy to the stage.

Death Note: The Musical Is a Perfect Addition to the Franchise

Death Note: The Musical Takes on a Different Interpretation of the Story

Death Note: The Musical offers a fresh take on the classic story and takes the high-stakes drama and blends it with a musical score that perfectly captures the depth of the characters. While staying true to the plot, the musical uses its medium to amplify the emotional tension, drawing out the moral ambiguities at the center of the story. This approach allows the musical to be more introspective and explore not only what the characters do but also why they choose to do it in ways that the anime and manga did not.

The musical version of Light is a far more sympathetic character in comparison, making his ultimate descent into darkness more tragic.

One of the most notable shifts is the portrayal of the protagonist, Light Yagami. In the anime, Light quickly descends into a cold, calculating figure obsessed with power and control. Oftentimes, he acts with a chilling detachment. However, in the musical, Light leans into his desire to create a better world and emphasizes that his actions are righteous and just. The musical version of Light is a far more sympathetic character in comparison, making his ultimate descent into darkness more tragic. This take makes Death Note: The Musical a necessary experience for fans across the world.