Who is Ken Nakajima?
Ken Nakajima? Who is ???
Born in Tokyo, JapanKen Nakajima is a movement director, theatre director, and visual artist working in the fields of theatre & fashion, and contemporary performance. His Practice (Synthesis) blends dance, theatre, and visual arts into a powerful language that conveys the poignant essence of human existence. Inspired by both Western and Eastern mythology, he crafts archetypal narratives that explore iconoclasm, image and philosophy.
His creative journey began with notable roles in productions like Madam Butterfly, The Barber of Seville, Wozzeck, and Der Rosenkavalier, and more at the N.N.T.T (New National Theatre Tokyo). Starting as a competitive Hip-Hop dancer, he transitioned to Contemporary dance and Butoh, allowing him to experiment artistically with movement and materials.
Ken completed his studies at Central Saint Martins, graduating with a first-class degree in MA Performance Design and Practice.
As a stage director, he made his directorial debut with An Odyssey at the Dominio Pubblico festival in Rome in 2019, in association with the State of the Art collective. Following this, he directed his first independent show, I’m Going Away Now, in Slovenia in 2023 at Gledališče Koper/Teatro Capodistria. His London debut came with SEEKING SHADOWS at Rich Mix in 2024, which was well received, garnering a 4/5 star review.
Transitioning from the world of theatre to film - Ken is set to direct his first short film I don’t know how to die, so I may stay Forever. Marking his debut as a film director.
Stage Direction
Movement Direction: Theatre, Fashion, Film, Music
In theatre - his approach is deeply rooted in contemporary dance, butoh, and physical theatre. His career began at the Royal Court Theatre, where his style quickly garnered attention and led to collaborations with venues, including - Colour Factory, Camden People’s Theatre, London Performance Studios, Omnibus Theatre, and Theatre by the Lake.
In fashion - his work has been featured in prominent publications and platforms including - SSENSE, The Face Magazine, King Kong Magazine, VOGUE Magazine, DAZED, SHOW STUDIOS, and brands like JADED London, Alyssa Marie Groeneveld, MOWALOLA and MAX FOUCAUT. His contributions have also been showcased at London Fashion Week, for Johanna Parv.
In film & music - he has worked with fashion brands and musicians such as - Astrid Sonne, Oklou, Lowswimmer, and Florence Rose. He choreographed on his first short film FOXES with Picloc Productions. With the production company Fracassantes, he debut the short film IMMODEST at Cannes Film Festival 2025.
Visual Arts
As a Visual Artist he has presented sculptural and performance works for solo works and collaborative projects at Kopple Project, Slash Arts, DWIRL New York, Tate Modern, Candid Arts Gallery.
Awards & Recognition
The Jamie Iddon Award for Emerging Artists 2024
Interview: How to survive your first year in the Sector - https://www.thestage.co.uk/advice/schools-out-new-graduates-on-how-to-survive-your-first-year-in-the-sector
Blog Post: “Not Your Average Suits Series" https://sirplus.co.uk/blogs/journal/not-your-average-suits-series-ken-nakajima
Interview: “I Was Just Wondering” Podcast // https://youtu.be/yIi5guf3usQ
Interview: ACSENDING DESIGN Magazine // https://www.ascendingdesign.org/?page_id=20231
Interview: CENT Magazine // https://centmagazine.co.uk/synthesis-theatre/
Interview: OSTRICH Magazine // https://ostrichmagazine.com/performance/kennakajima
Press.
"Ken Nakajima is a legend and icon.
- Frankie Baumer, Art Director. LNCC
"Ken’s work feels like something from a music video, or a Derek Jarmen film, a figure on a beach comes to mind. The suit and lack of collar on the shirt ebbs a 90s aesthetic which still feels fresh and relevant today.
- Sophie Risner, Curator
"Nakajima is amongst a generation of fresh new theatre artists paving the way, showing others how they can use hybrid to adapt in foreign circumstances.
- Alliya Sophia Bouyis, CENT Magazine