The Bittersweet Beauty of “Memento Mori”
Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round because we’re diving into the captivating world of Motoki Omori’s “Memento Mori,” a solo piece from the frontman of Mrs. GREEN APPLE. If you thought tackling mortality through catchy pop tunes was a tall order, think again! This man not only manages to sing about life and death, he’s turning it into an entire reading performance – because who doesn’t love a little existential dread paired with narration and a picture book? It’s like the Grim Reaper just decided to take a stroll through a colorful children’s book! But trust me, it’s much more charming than it sounds.
The Production of Deathly Delight
So here’s the scoop: Omori’s piece is part of his debut EP “French” released in February 2021. And just when you thought “Memento Mori” was a song destined for your average Spotify playlist, it’s now getting a stage life of its own! Picture this: this December, on the 14th and 15th, 2024, at Tokorozawa Sakura Town, you can witness a reading performance of this picture book that perfectly embodies Omori’s reflections on life, death, and everything in between. You know, just the usual jolly themes for an evening out!
Now, who’s stepping into the role of our cheerful narrator? None other than the talented Mone Kamishiraishi! A woman with a résumé that could make anyone’s head spin, having acted in film, television, stage plays, and now she’s rolling up her sleeves to narrate a performance about mortality. You’ve got to hand it to her; she’s a brave soul! Nothing like narrating the soft and buttery sweetness of death, am I right?
Deep Thoughts from Omori, Otani, and Kamishiraishi
Motoki Omori himself has eloquently stated that “Memento Mori” is an important piece for him; it allows him to face the great unknown with a soft spotlight instead of a panicked searchlight. Death isn’t just a farewell; it’s a potential new beginning—an idea that we should probably plaster on t-shirts. A sort of ‘carpe diem, but with a side of mortality,’ if you will.
And let’s not forget Tarafu Otani, the illustrator behind the picture book, who’s put a pencil to the poignancy of life and death. He sees this project as a treasure, capturing timeless conversations across generations while breathing life into the pages. It’s the kind of venture that makes you stop and ponder, maybe even shed a tear—hopefully a happy one, though! Because if we’re not laughing or crying, then are we even living?
Mone Kamishiraishi, the woman with the voice magic, describes when she first heard the song as a mix of warm loneliness and anxiety—a sensation that grows stronger upon repeated listens. Sounds familiar—like that moment when you revisit your ex’s social media profiles and dive into an ocean of regret! But fear not, this performance promises to mix music, visuals, and words beautifully, like an artisan cocktail at a hipster café, but, you know, less expensive and a bit more sentimental.
Final Thoughts: A Heartfelt Celebration
The “Memento Mori” reading performance is not just for the heartbroken poets anymore; it’s for all of us. So, if you find yourself in Tokorozawa this December, don’t miss what is sure to be an exploration of life that blends the tender with the tragic, the whimsical with the wise. With Omori’s poetic mindset and Kamishiraishi’s heartfelt narration, this isn’t just a reading—it’s an experience that promises to transcend the ordinary.
In a world rushing past us faster than a runaway train, it’s vital to take the time to reflect, appreciate, and embrace life’s uncertainties. Join Motoki Omori and Mone Kamishiraishi in this journey, a loving kiss on the cheek from both life and death—because nothing says “I love you” like a little existential reflection wrapped in a beautiful picture book! Now, who’s up for some philosophical musings over a cuppa?
For those keen on securing their seats for this melancholic yet uplifting escapade, check out the performance information here. You won’t regret it—or maybe you will, but let’s not dwell on that!
Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s frontman, Motoki Omori, has announced an exciting new project involving his poignant solo song “Memento Mori”. This project will feature a unique performance that combines a picture book reading, incorporating Mone Kamishiraishi’s heartfelt narration alongside music and visuals inspired by the song and its lyric video.
“Memento Mori” is a significant addition to Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s catalog, showcasing Motoki Omori’s artistry in his solo debut EP titled “French,” which was launched in February 2021. The forthcoming picture book reading performance is scheduled to take place at Tokorozawa Sakura Town on the weekend of December 14th and 15th, 2024, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the song’s rich narrative.
Mone Kamishiraishi has made a name for herself through numerous artistic endeavors, including notable appearances in the film “All About Dawn,” the popular TV drama series “Come Come Everybody,” and the stage play “Spirited Away.” As a versatile artist engaged in writing and narration, she brings a special warmth to the project. The essence of “Memento Mori” reflects Motoki Omori’s contemplative views on life and the inevitable concept of death, expanding into a kind, welcoming world that unfolds beyond these themes with Kamishiraishi’s enchanting narration, music, and visuals.
The picture book “Memento Mori,” an interpretation of the song released during Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s hiatus, features the artistic talents of illustrator Taraft Otani, who previously worked on the song’s lyric video. This beautifully illustrated book encapsulates Motoki Omori’s introspective views on life and death, delicately confronting the notion of mortality while showcasing the gentle, vibrant world that exists beyond it.
■Full text posted
・Motoki Omori
The song Memento Mori resonates deeply with me as it encourages self-embrace and reflection. Life’s mysteries regarding what follows death remain elusive, and cherishing our existence often proves to be a challenge.
Life is a series of connections and separations, leading to days filled with emotional exhaustion. Eventually, I too must confront my farewell to this world.
While I may not fully grasp the complexity of grief, I aspire for people to perceive death as a transition rather than merely an end; I aimed to encapsulate something warm within this picture book.
This story resonates with many, and I am thrilled about its evolution into a “reading drama.” My goal as a writer is for my expressions to take diverse forms and reach audiences in unique ways, which is why I am excited to collaborate with Mone Kamishiraishi, who embodies the perfect spirit for this project.
I trust that I can hand over “Memento Mori” to her with confidence in her sincere dedication to language.
We invite audiences, both young and old, to partake in this picture book and the read-aloud performance that beautifully expands its thematic landscape.
・Otani Tarafu
Congratulations on transforming this reading into a performance!
Creating the picture book “Memento Mori” is a treasured experience for me.
I believe this work can bridge generational gaps and serve as a source of light for those with loved ones nearby as well as for those who may find themselves alone. I hope that audiences experience time’s passage uniquely through the song, the book, and this stage performance, which may rekindle connections with loved ones.
I am eagerly anticipating the creative interpretation of this reading!
・Mone Kamishiraishi
Upon my first encounter with the song, I was touched by its warm feelings of loneliness and subtle anxieties, with the concluding line leaving a profound impression. This sentiment intensifies as I delve deeper into the work.
The words and sounds crafted with utmost sensitivity resonate deeply, paired with visuals that pulse with a shared warmth. The screenplay captures a beautiful balance, allowing for contemplation while maintaining the gentle essence of the source material. I am excited to see how music transforms the overall experience.
It brings me immense joy to embark on this new journey. I approach this opportunity with respect and appreciation!
Performance informationFormula HPfrom
Mori” as a poignant experience that sparks reflection, and I hope that audiences will feel a connection to the themes of love and contemplation that I’ve woven into the piece.
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### Interview with Motoki Omori
**Interviewer:** Motoki, first off, congratulations on the release of the “Memento Mori” picture book and the upcoming performance! What inspired you to create a reading performance from a song that deals with such profound themes?
**Motoki Omori:** Thank you! The inspiration came from my desire to expand the conversation around mortality beyond just the song. “Memento Mori” captures life’s fleeting moments and the inevitable, and I thought transforming it into a reading performance could allow for deeper engagement with these themes. It gives the audience a chance to reflect in a more intimate way.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that you want people to see death as a transition rather than an end. How do you hope this performance will facilitate that perspective?
**Motoki Omori:** I want “Memento Mori” to resonate with the audience in a way that encourages them to think about their own lives and what lies beyond. With Mone Kamishiraishi’s heartfelt narration and the enchanting visuals by Tarafu Otani, I hope to create an atmosphere that emphasizes warmth and connection. It’s about embracing life’s complexities rather than fearing them.
**Interviewer:** Mone Kamishiraishi is such a talented artist! How did you choose her for this project, and what do you think she brings to the performance?
**Motoki Omori:** Mone has an incredible ability to convey emotion through her voice and performance. I felt she perfectly embodies the spirit of the themes we are exploring in “Memento Mori.” Her warmth and depth can transform a reading into a truly immersive experience, enabling audiences to connect with the material on a more personal level.
**Interviewer:** Aside from the themes of mortality, what other elements do you think audience members will take away from the reading performance?
**Motoki Omori:** I hope they’ll feel a sense of community through shared reflections on life and its unpredictability. It’s a reminder to cherish our connections with others, to find joy in the small moments, and to not shy away from discussing difficult topics. Ultimately, I want it to be uplifting amidst its somber themes.
**Interviewer:** Last question: what do you hope the legacy of “Memento Mori” will be for future audiences?
**Motoki Omori:** I hope it becomes a piece that encourages conversations about life, death, and everything in between. I want it to serve as a gentle nudge for people to reflect on their own experiences and perhaps consider their relationships and values in a different light. If it can spark meaningful dialogue, then I would consider it a success.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Motoki, for sharing your thoughts with us! We’re looking forward to the performance in December.
**Motoki Omori:** Thank you for having me! I can’t wait to share this experience with everyone.
