If you’re looking for signs that life might finally be returning to something resembling normal, theme parks (big, crowded, fun-oriented) are a pretty good indicator. For example, Universal Studios Japan’s One Piece Stage Show will return in August.
The anime pirate-themed event didn’t happen last year, so Monday’s announced return of the show in a couple of months is a positive sign. The park will resume weekday-only operations on 1 June.
The show has undergone several revamps since it first appeared in 2007 (it had a 2008-2009 hiatus). Typically, the show has an original story, but one that keeps current with the latest storyline. In addition to the show, the One Piece fun at USJ includes Sanji’s Pirate Restaurant, which will also make its return.
This year, the show will take place in Wano Country. If you’ve been watching One Piece on Crunchyroll or elsewhere, you know that Luffy’s Straw Hat Pirates have been in Wano for a while.
We don’t know much about the new show. But apparently the plot will feature Luffy and Trafalgar Law, fighting to protect the bonds between them and Ace and Corazon. The show will remain on until 31 October.
Of course, USJ has had to change course before, but at least USJ’s One Piece plans to return. Tokyo One Piece Tower is probably gone for good.