I know it's a bit late of me to make observations about troupe retirements and whatnot, when Mizu announced hers months ago. Still, it's a surreal feeling, knowing that I was in this fandom when she became Top Star. Admittedly, I'd only been toe-dipping for about six months and the nicknames and kanji were a bafflement to me, but I have now been here and into it for the duration of a Top Otokoyaku's whole run.

I just missed the changeover in Soragumi and was still too new to be aware of Touko's debut as Top. But Komu was one of the first people I ever saw, what with the Soragumi Elisabeth being the thing that hauled me in. Her retirement to make way for Mizu was when I knew I was hooked (I blame Susano'o).

And even though Mizu was never quite my favourite, I've always been fond of her as 'my' Top Star, the first I remember clearly and strongly. I'll miss her awfully, but I have great hopes that if Yumiko has gone J-Rock, then Mizu won't be far behind ;)

This didn't come as a big surprise. Ever since I watched Zorro, I've been waiting for it. She's at that level of frightening-thinness which is usually a precursor to retirement in Siennes.

However, what I think is fantastic is that she looks like she's already prepping herself for a JRock/Pop career:
I can't wait to see where she goes from Takarazuka in September :) (After a good meal or six as well)

It does, though, bring to mind the question of the succession. I would like to see Kimu do well, but I don't know if they won't maybe bring someone slightly more senior in, at least for a little while.

Originally written 05/07/2007

Summary: Based on Japanese mythology, the story follows the fallen God Susano-o and his return to his Godhood.


( Susano-o/Takarazuka Glory! - Takarazuka Snow Troupe 2004 )