Takarazuka Fandom Unveiled: Words Only True Fans Know
"Secrets Only Takarazuka Fans Know: A Deep Dive into the Otaku World"
Hello, everyone! I'm Lily, your Préffy representative‧｡⋆: 🦢·˚
Préffy's Official TikTok Hits!
One of our most popular TikTok series is "Tell us words only fans of [your favorite group] would understand!"
In this series, we gather and share unique phrases and terms that only fans from specific fandoms would recognize. We collected submissions for this project on TikTok, and over 100 people participated, contributing fascinating insights and fan-specific terms from their perspectives!
This time, with the help of dedicated Takarazuka fans in Japan, we've compiled the results of an exclusive survey 🩷⊹₊ ⋆.
Today’s Theme: The Takarazuka Revue
I must confess—I’ve been a devoted fan of Takarazuka for over 20 years (yes, despite my youthful energy, haha)!
Recently, there’s been a visible increase in Takarazuka fans overseas. At a recent Moon Troupe performance of Golden Liberty and Phoenix Rising, I was seated next to a foreign fan who had been brought along by her Japanese friend.
From the snippets of their conversation and her emotional reactions, I gathered she was a fan of Yuzuno Kazama (nicknamed "Odachin"). Her joy every time Kazama appeared on stage and her tears when Kazama stepped out for the iconic second-lead finale left my heart feeling so warm.
Now, let’s dive into some unique phrases that only true Takarazuka fans would know! How many do you recognize?
1. Nantoka Sanshi!（なんとかさんしっ！）
This phrase, akin to "5, 6, 7, 8!" in English, is Takarazuka’s version of a rehearsal chant.
Used before singing or dancing, it’s a staple in practice rooms. Even former Snow Troupe member Chiaki Maria has talked about it on YouTube!
2. "Shonichi-no-de"（初日の出）
How do you read the kanji 初日の出 (typically "hatsu hi no de," meaning "first sunrise of the year")?
If you said “shonichi-no-de,” congratulations! You’re officially a seasoned Takarazuka fan!
Fans tend to mentally transform “初日の出” into “shonichi-no-de,” referring to the excitement of the first day of a new production. This mental habit can make New Year’s Day quite amusing for Takarazuka fans!
3. Gohiki (ご贔屓)
This term, meaning “patronage” or “favorite,” is deeply significant in Takarazuka fandoms.
While fans of other communities might say “my oshi (favorite),” Takarazuka fans often differentiate between “oshi” and “gohiki.” A gohiki is someone you dedicate yourself to supporting, almost as if signing a lifelong contract. Joining an actor’s fan club (referred to as "kai") is often likened to submitting a marriage certificate!
For Takarazuka fans, “gohiki” signifies a level of commitment and reverence that goes beyond casual fandom. It’s a badge of honor—and responsibility.
4. Chonpa (チョンパ)
This iconic stage effect is unique to Takarazuka. The term refers to the synchronized moment when a sharp "chon" sound from a woodblock signals the sudden illumination of the stage.
While traditionally used in Japanese-themed performances, chonpa has recently appeared in revue-style shows as a glamorous touch.
5. Shanshan (シャンシャン)
Shanshan refers to the props carried by performers during parades. The name originates from the tinkling sound of bells ("shanshan") attached to the props during the 1950 Flower Troupe performance Arabian Nights.
Every production features unique shanshan designs. Some iconic examples include props that transform into tobacco in BADDY or the bold "La" curtain design from La Esmeralda.
Préffy’s Mission to Celebrate Takarazuka Fans
Did you enjoy this glimpse into Takarazuka-specific lingo? If it piqued your interest, I’m thrilled!
Préffy is all about celebrating fandoms and making your “oshi-katsu” even more colorful. We’re still accepting suggestions for fandom-specific terms, so feel free to comment or participate in our official TikTok post!
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this project. Let’s continue exploring the unique language and traditions of fandoms together. Stay tuned for our next update!
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Let Préffy be a place that brightens your oshi-katsu! 🩷⊹₊ ⋆
Lily 🌷•°`☆