CyberAgent, Inc. has announced that the TV anime The World Is Dancing (co-produced by CyberAgent and Shochiku) is set to premiere in July 2026. Alongside the announcement, a new teaser trailer has been released, showcasing additional cast members and an impressive lineup of staff. Fans can also enjoy a fresh illustration of the main characters created by original manga author Kazuto Mihara.
Although it only spans six volumes (originally serialized in Kodansha’s seinen magazine Morning), Mihara’s The World Is Dancing manga garnered significant attention for its intricately crafted story and themes that continue to resonate — all woven into a narrative set against the backdrop of ancient Noh artistry. The English version is available online, featuring a free preview of Chapter 1.
In a time marked by ceaseless conflict, a beautiful and inquisitive boy named Oniyasha encounters various individuals, experiencing joy and sorrow while confronting his own vulnerabilities as he creates a new form of dance for a world characterized by instability. This is a “dancing story” imagined when the boy who would eventually become Noh’s creator, Zeami, was still called Oniyasha, transported across 600 years to the current day.
The teaser trailer begins with a powerful statement from Oniyasha (the boy destined to become Zeami), voiced by Yumiri Hanamori: “People live and die whether or not they dance.” Following this, the trailer quickly introduces new characters and voice actors. Katsuyuki Konishi voices Kan’ami, Oniyasha’s father, recognized alongside Zeami for elevating Noh to an esteemed art form. The teaser also unveils the casting of Simba Tsuchiya, Maaya Uchida, Romi Park, and Haruki Ishiya.
- Used Book in Good Condition
- George Trombley (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 376 Pages - 08/22/2014 (Publication Date) - Learn From Zero (Publisher)
- Ken Fukuyama, Yuki Fukuyama (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 246 Pages - 10/11/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Sumiko Uo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 01/01/2005 (Publication Date) - BarCharts Publishing Inc. (Publisher)
As Oniyasha states, “I hate dancing. I hate my father,” the teaser emphasizes his tumultuous relationship with Kan’ami, the sentiments of those around him regarding dance, and Oniyasha’s personal evolution.
Illustration by Kazuto Mihara
A new illustration featuring the main characters by original author Kazuto Mihara has been shared, along with his remarks:
“I feel both surprise and joy at seeing the original work rise again in the form of an anime. A story that has already been told is being told once more, dressed in a different guise. In that flow, I sense a mysterious bond that feels somehow similar to the structure of Noh itself.
Even while I was serializing the manga, I always felt that this story was not a single, definitive answer, but one form among many possibilities. I was merely depicting a certain person at a certain moment, and the people and choices that did not make it onto the page surely exist as well. The anime will depict characters and scenes that did not appear in the original manga.
I believe it will become a work that both those who have read the manga and those encountering the story for the first time can enjoy, each from their own unique starting point. I look forward to seeing this tale expand into a new form of expression through the space and time that only animation can provide.”
- Used Book in Good Condition
- George Trombley (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 376 Pages - 08/22/2014 (Publication Date) - Learn From Zero (Publisher)
- Ken Fukuyama, Yuki Fukuyama (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 246 Pages - 10/11/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Sumiko Uo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 01/01/2005 (Publication Date) - BarCharts Publishing Inc. (Publisher)
Along with the new voice talent, a number of additional creative staff members have been revealed. These include animation producer Mizoguchi Kan (Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Road to the Top and Umamusume: Pretty Derby the Movie – Beginning of a New Era), composer Daisuke Shinoda (Listen to the Universe, Sword Art Online Alternative: Gung Gale Online II), Noh choreography supervisor Tsumura Reijiro (head of the Kanze-school Ryokusen-kai and an Important Intangible Cultural Property holder for “Nohgaku”), choreographers Kaiji Moriyama (chief choreographer & stage director for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony, No-Face in the Spirited Away stage production 2023) and Mikiko Kawamura (The Hellion, N.P.)
As previously mentioned, The World Is Dancing will be showcased at AnimeJapan 2026 in Tokyo, featuring exclusive footage and giveaways at the Shochiku Anime booth (J-25) and CyberAgent Anime booth (J-49). Special guests include voice star Yumiri Hanamori, director Toshimasa Kuroyanagi, and producer Mizoguchi Kan.
Follow the series at the official website sh-anime.shochiku.co.jp/worldisdancing-anime.
Cast & Characters
Oniyasha — Yumiri Hanamori
A boy who often finds himself lost in thought, he is the son of Kan’ami, the leader of the Kanze troupe. Although he is anticipated to one day take the lead himself, he grapples with the fundamental question of dance: “Why do people dance?” Once his curiosity or desire to explore something ignites, he charges ahead without hesitation, consistently dragging everyone around him into the resulting chaos.
“I believe that in this world, there are as many things people consider ‘good’ as there are people. No two individuals assess things using the same measure. That’s precisely why, if someone encounters something they deem ‘good’ in this world, it will undoubtedly blossom into a flower that illuminates and adorns their path. I can’t help but hope for that.
In a world where the rise and fall of fortunes resemble waves lapping at the shore, what shape did the flower he nurtured take, and what hue did it radiate? Why does it continue to bloom today, along countless paths? I hope that somewhere beyond this work, it can reach you too.” — Yumiri Hanamori (The Summer Hikaru Died, Hell’s Paradise)
Ishiya — Simba Tsuchiya
A member of the Kanze troupe who truly understands Oniyasha. Due to a leg condition he has had since childhood, he has forsaken the idea of performing on stage, but he possesses a remarkable talent for chanting and often aids Oniyasha in his rehearsals. He is a kind-hearted boy who cares deeply for the Kanze troupe and for Oniyasha.
“Every recording session for this series felt like an incredibly special experience. Before each one, the director, scriptwriter, producers, and sound director would gather in the recording booth to share their insights — the intentions behind that episode’s script, the emotions they wished to convey. This collective time naturally intensified the actors’ feelings, allowing us to delve more deeply into the characters and narrative.
The passion the staff exhibited for the project flowed to the cast and then into the work itself. It felt like a space filled with affection. I’m sure every cast member involved in this anime developed a profound love for this world. I am definitely one of them. That’s why I approached the role with dedication, pouring my complete energy into my performance. I hope that passion resonates with all of you through the series.” — Simba Tsuchiya (Backflip!!, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX)
Kogane — Maaya Uchida
A friend of Oniyasha who often spends time by the riverbank, where he and Oniyasha — who sneak away from practice — create outlandish stories together. He may come off as rough around the edges, but he has shown to be surprisingly reliable and does have an interest in dance.
“Congratulations on the anime adaptation of The World Is Dancing! When we started recording, I distinctly remember an overwhelming excitement — it felt like something extraordinary was beginning…! I’m genuinely looking forward to experiencing the youthful journey of those enmeshed in dance within this story.” — Maaya Uchida (Drops of God, Kaya-chan Isn’t Scary)
Zojiro — Romi Park
A young performer leading the Dengaku Shinza troupe, he maintains strict standards for himself and others, serving as a motivating force within the troupe. He observes Oniyasha with a discerning and critical eye.
“Upon my first encounter with the manga, it felt as though something had seized my heart with its talons. It had been quite some time since I felt that way, and it made me tremble. Every character seems to mirror your soul — prompting reflection, an embarrassment of sorts, alongside an unmistakable passion igniting within.
I feel immense gratitude for having come across a narrative that candidly reveals the essence of creators, artists, and all those devoted to performance — a truth that endures across generations.” — Romi Park (Fullmetal Alchemist, Attack on Titan)
Kan’ami — Katsuyuki Konishi
The head of the Kanze troupe and Oniyasha’s father. A masterful performer who elevated the profile of Sarugaku within a short span of time. He is often quiet, resulting in misunderstandings with Oniyasha.
“I never envisioned I would have the opportunity to voice Kan’ami himself… I am truly grateful. I cannot wait to witness how the storyline, visuals, and music come together on screen! I hope you enjoy your journey in the realm of The World Is Dancing!” — Katsuyuki Konishi (Tojima Wants to Be a Kamen Rider, Gachiakuta)
Junigoro — Haruki Ishiya
A Kanze troupe member and a young apprentice of the small hand drum. His serious demeanor seems to shape his feelings toward Oniyasha.
“During my student years, I had a fleeting chance to experience Noh, so voicing Junigoro feels like a cosmic connection — a true honor. Each person interprets and experiences things differently — their emotions towards others, art, and life itself. Those sensitivities are influenced by past experiences, which may change or stay the same.
In this context, Noh — at least in the broader interpretation presented here — remains a constant. I’m channeling all my current understanding of what is ‘good’ into this role, aiming for viewers to receive this ‘goodness’ in their hearts. If something resonates, I couldn’t ask for more. Please anticipate the broadcast.” — Haruki Ishiya (MarriageToxin, I Made Friends with the Second Prettiest Girl in My Class)
