Akane-banashi (2026)

2. First Performance

2026-04-11

Hearing that Master Shiguma is secretly meeting with a young girl, Futatsume Guriko investigates and finds him teaching Akane at a karaoke parlor.

3. Senior Apprentices

2026-04-19

Akane joins Shiguma's school as an apprentice. The earnest Kyoji Arakawa is tasked with guiding her, but she finds herself stuck doing menial chores.

4. Beyond Joy

2026-04-25

Akane performs at a nursing home, displaying all she has learned. Kyoji goes next, determined to show her his skill as her elder fellow apprentice.

5. Her Path Forward

2026-05-02

Akane gets career counseling from her teacher Iwashimizu, known as the Ice Lady, who refuses to acknowledge Akane's dream of becoming a Rakugoka.

6. Terakoya

2026-05-09

After learning that Issho will judge the annual student Rakugo championship, Akane gains Shiguma's permission to compete — but on one condition.

7. Karaku Cup

2026-05-16

At the Karaku Cup preliminaries, all eyes are on defending champion Karashi and rising voice actor Hikaru Koragi, but Kaisei picks Akane to win.

8. What They Want

2026-05-23

As the Karaku Cup finals begin, Karashi wins over the crowd with his bold adapted Rakugo, but head judge Issho's verdict remains to be seen.

9. Performer

2026-05-30

At the Karaku Cup finals, Hikaru Koragi performs a sentimental story to prove she is more than just a pretty face. Next, Akane takes the stage.

10. Jugemu

2026-06-06

Akane's performance of "Jugemu" takes a subdued approach, providing a pleasant respite for the spectators caught up in the excitement of the contest.

11. Answer

2026-06-13

Following Akane's bold question, the shrewd Issho makes the reporters leave the room, then reveals the truth about the expulsion incident.

12. Graduation

2026-06-20

Akane's Karaku Cup win draws attention at school. As graduation nears, her friends chase their own dreams, and Shiguma ponders a stage name for her.