The popular detective series "Aibou" is being turned into a theatrical production this winter, courtesy of the all-female Takarazuka Revue. This is said to be the first time that a Japanese television drama series has been adapted by the Takarazuka.

The original show, which has been renewed for an 8th season and was made into a hit movie last year, currently stars actors Yutaka Mizutani and Mitsuhiro Oikawa. (Oikawa joined the show after Mizutani's previous partner, Yasufumi Terawaki, left during Season 7.) The Takarazuka version will be based on the upcoming 8th season, with Sei Matobu starring as Mizutani's character, Ukyo Sugishita.

Although the Takarazuka has never adapted a Japanese drama before in its 95-year history, the troupe did a version of the Korean series "Tae Wang Sa Shin Gi" ("The Legend") at the start of this year. Matobu also starred in that production.

"Aibou" will be performed at the Theater Drama City in Osaka from December 23 to January 6. Additional performances are scheduled at Tokyo's Nippon Seinenkan from January 15 to January 22.