Ryoko Yonekura Opens Up About Challenges of Playing a ‘Gentle Mother,’ Emphasizes ‘Not Being Shy’

Actress Ryoko Yonekura shared her thoughts on the challenges of portraying a "gentle mother" during the announcement event for the Tani Momoko Ballet Troupe’s new production "CINDERELLA." Addressing the media, she reflected on her approach to the role and revealed that she has been particularly mindful of "not being shy" in her performance. The event, held on June 18, 2026, marked Yonekura’s participation in the ballet adaptation, a departure from her more typical dramatic roles. She acknowledged the difficulty of embodying the warmth and softness required for the character, stating that she had to think deeply about how to express it authentically. In her comments, Yonekura emphasized the importance of overcoming self-consciousness on stage, a lesson she has learned through years of performing. The production, under the direction of the renowned Tani Momoko Ballet Troupe, promises to offer a fresh interpretation of the classic fairy tale, with Yonekura’s performance expected to be a highlight.