Read ‘em：地上15メートルでマツケンサンバ

Actor Ken Matsudaira performed “Matsuken Samba II” from a platform 15 meters high at Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise on April 27, praying for sunny weather during Japan’s Golden Week holidays.

The theme park is hosting a special event through May 7 titled “Matsuken-filled amusement park,” featuring panels of the actor’s face in his guise as a glittery samurai lord and his music playing throughout the grounds.

Matsudaira is widely acknowledged, by himself and others, as someone who brings good weather. When he appeared in person on April 27, the morning rain had cleared to blue skies. After his performance, he posed in front of a train decorated with his image and rode the merry-go-round with fans wearing “Matsuken” masks, drawing cheers of “Ue-sama!” (“Lord!”) from onlookers.

His fans include many young people and children. “I’m very grateful,” he told reporters with a smile. Matsudaira said his goal is to keep dancing the Matsuken Samba until age 80, and that he stays fit by walking regularly.

Ayaka Hirata, a 21-year-old university student, said, “When I see Matsuken, I just feel more energetic. Even when I don’t feel like taking a bath, if I listen to the Matsuken Samba, my body starts moving on its own.”

　最大12連休も可能な今年のゴールデンウイーク。期間中の晴天を祈願するため、横浜・八景島シーパラダイスで27日、「マツケン」こと俳優の松平健さんが地上15メートルの高所作業車の上に乗り、太陽に向かって持ち歌の「マツケンサンバⅡ」を披露した。

　園内では5月7日まで「マツケンまみれゆうえんち」と銘打ったイベントを開催中で、あちこちでマツケンの顔のパネルが見え、歌が聞こえる空間を提供している。

　松平さんは自他ともに認める「晴れ男」。「ご本人登場」となった27日は、朝方の雨はあがり、青空になっていた。

　松平さんは歌唱を終えると、マツケンの顔が先頭についた汽車の前でポーズをとり、マツケンの面をつけた観客と一緒にメリーゴーラウンドを楽しんだ。観客からは「上様！」と声がかかった。