There are estimated 100 senior theater companies in Japan . Some of them community based, some government supported and even professional and commercial theaters are joining in this movement. One of the prominent among them is Saitama Gold Theater led by Artistic Director Yukio Ninagawa ( Director “Macbeth” Brooklyn Academy of Music). “Old age is a proof that you experienced deep emotions and many days of ordinary lives. Physical expression using this personal history might help one to discover one's new prospective. (Yukio Ninagawa)”.

Retirement often means end of life in Japan . This is because most of Japanese are not used to life outside work or raising children. So when the time comes for them to kick back and enjoy, they are often lost. Those seniors do not wish their life to expire as soon as they reach the retirement age. However, it is a fact many seniors end up shutting themselves up inside with only TV and occasional phone calls from their family to look forward to. “Theatre for seniors” started as one of the outreach method for seniors, but, it was just the invitation some needed, for theatre provide many things seniors crave; a place to go to, friends to talk to, a healthy age appropriate exercise (mentally and physically). Having performances is an important factor of this movement's success. The presentation of their works awards them with sense of achievement. It also works as their motivation to carry on.

As our baby boomers are hitting their retirement age, both in Japan and U.S. , this growing Senior Theater Movement might have a prospective to provide stimulus to our community and economy worldwide in near future.