In this story, Emiko Uenuma, a comedian and local TV talent from Osaka, shares her experiences hosting the 1994 NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen (Red and White Song Festival) on New Year's Eve. She initially thought the offer was a prank but eventually accepted the role. Despite feeling overwhelmed and receiving some negative comments from singers, she persevered and worked hard to prepare for the event.
Emiko shares behind-the-scenes stories about the preparation, rehearsals, and the actual live broadcast. She highlights the challenges she faced, including navigating complex interpersonal relationships and dealing with the pressure of hosting a live broadcast.
However, Emiko also shares heartwarming moments, such as when she cried during a performance of the song "Subaru" and felt a sense of accomplishment when the event ended. She praises the professionalism of her co-host, Mr. Furudate, and the NHK staff.
Emiko also shares her experience judging the competition in 2019 and handing over the championship flag. She expresses her love for NHK and the Kohaku Uta Gassen, which she believes should continue to be held in some form, even during difficult times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Throughout the story, Emiko also shares personal anecdotes and reflections on her life, including her childhood memories of watching the Kohaku Uta Gassen and her experiences as a local TV talent.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The speaker has a French bull dog named Bebe who is 12 years old.
2. Bebe was premature and had a weak intestine.
3. The speaker was asked to host the Red Team on NHK's Kohaku Uta Gassen in 1994.
4. The speaker was initially hesitant to accept the role due to lack of confidence and fear.
5. Despite initial reservations, the speaker accepted the role and hosted the Red Team for two years.
6. The speaker had to navigate difficult interpersonal relationships and costumes during the show.
7. The speaker was impressed by the talent and professionalism of the singers and staff involved in the show.
8. The speaker was particularly moved by the performance of Shinji Tanimura singing "Subaru".
9. The speaker was given a phone card as a souvenir from NHK featuring the 46th Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
10. The speaker judged the competition again in 2019 and handed over the championship flag.
11. The speaker's husband was watching the show at home in Osaka and was proud of the speaker's involvement.
12. The speaker believes that the Kohaku Uta Gassen should continue to be held in some form, even with the challenges posed by the coronavirus.