Yu Okuda is a Tokyo-based Composer and Theatre Maker.

She was selected for the 2023 Program of Overseas Study for Upcoming Artists by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan, as well as the 2023 U.S.-Japan Creative Artists Fellowship Program by the Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission, completing a one-year residency in New York City (2023–2024).

 

Her practice combines the transcultural power of music with theatrical storytelling that does not rely solely on spoken language. Working across musical theatre, hybrid performance, and live interdisciplinary collaboration, she explores how music functions as a narrative framework—enabling audiences to encounter stories through perception and emotional resonance.

In addition to her creative work, she is active internationally as a music director and pianist, with a focus on fostering multilingual and cross-cultural creative environments.

 

Her key self-led projects include; How to Make a Love Song, a New Performance (Concept, Music & Lyrics) Irreplaceable, a New Musical (Music & Japanese Lyrics) On the Zattere, a Musical Novel (Music & Music Director)

Some of her composer credits include; Avidya: No Lights Inn commissioned by Niwa Gekidan Penino, which won the Award of Excellence in the 71st Annual ACA National Arts Festival Japan by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan and was performed in Japan, Germany, the US, Netherlands, Denmark, Australia, and France. Wataru’s Innocent Marriage Hunting, the Musical commissioned by Umeda Arts Theater Co., Ltd. Rhapsody on Kumamoto folksongs Yoheho-bushi and The Lullaby of Itsuki for violin and shamisen commissioned by NIPPON STEEL Arts Foundation.

 

Yu holds a BA in Music (Composition) from Kunitachi College of Music, Tokyo, Japan. She is the Founder and President of Musical Theatre Writers Japan (NPO) and Onpuma. She is a member of the Dramatists Guild of America, ASCAP, and Maestra.