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極付 楽屋裏王子 [Kiwametsuke Gakuya Ura Ouji] #2
Backstage Prince, Vol. 2
There's trouble brewing behind the kabuki curtain. Ryusei's dad doesn't want anything--or anyone!--distracting his son from his chosen profession. It's no secret that he disapproves of Ryusei's romance with Akari. Now he's determined to sabotage their relationship anyway he can!
192 pages, Paperback
First published February 24, 2006
6 people are currently reading
250 people want to read
About the author
Kanoko Sakurakouji
53 books487 followersKanoko Sakurakouji (桜小路かのこ) is a Japanese mangaka.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 30, 2021
Man this could have done with an extra chapter at the end with a wedding or something, that’ve wrapped it up a bit better if You ask me. It was a fun quick read though I did enjoy myself!
December 28, 2014
Huh, this was series was a little short. Guess I'm used to reading long series. Anyway this was cute, a little cliche with the usual scenarios with most shoujo mangas. But at the same time you don't really mind it. Well, it depends on the series I guess. Otherwise, it wouldn't be as fun to read. Good but okay volume.
July 1, 2012
Where is my epilogue of wedded bliss?! Want to see kids! Or at least have it be an additional story from the cat's perspective. That would have been cute! Oh well, it is what it is.
January 1, 2024
Meh. Everything felt so rushed. I really didn’t care for the male lead. He was pretty rude. I think my favorite character was Toshiya.
June 14, 2007
O the drama of shojo. Akari continues her backstage romance with Ryusei, keeping up the appearance that she's only an assistant whenever paparazzi show up. They have ups, they have downs, their relation ship is in pretty much the same position at this volume's end as in the beginning.
The main suprise in this book is that Naoki, a talented but unconnected kabuki actor with a crush on Akari, is adopted by one of the high families so that he can act in major roles on stage. As soon as word leaks out, Naoki declares his intent to pursue Akari and win her away from Ryusei.
While most of this is straitforward shojo revolutions, there's just one niggling question in the back of my mind: Is Naoki only interested in Akari because taking her away from Ryusei would destroy his main competitor?
The main suprise in this book is that Naoki, a talented but unconnected kabuki actor with a crush on Akari, is adopted by one of the high families so that he can act in major roles on stage. As soon as word leaks out, Naoki declares his intent to pursue Akari and win her away from Ryusei.
While most of this is straitforward shojo revolutions, there's just one niggling question in the back of my mind: Is Naoki only interested in Akari because taking her away from Ryusei would destroy his main competitor?
November 6, 2012
Really wish this series had more kabuki in it -_-, and less predictable girly drama. The reason I picked up this series is the different settting, and it really did not take advantage of that. Being only a 2 volume story, the characters did not have a lot of time to develop and things felt awkward and fast. If it had the time to spread it, it may have been better. Sakurakouji's art is wonderful, I won't disagree with that. However, an art form as old and respected as kabuki should not have been simply a backdrop.
February 28, 2024
"Backstage Prince" by Kanoko Sakurakoji is a short (only 2 volumes!) but adorable manga featuring a love story in the world of kabuki theater. Akari, a high-school girl who is clueless about both boys and kabuki, finds herself roped in as the assistant to gorgeous Ryusei, a famous young kabuki actor. But what starts as a simple assignment turns into something deeper as both of them realize the depth of their feelings and need for each other, despite the drama that comes from balancing love with an entertainment career!
The story isn’t long or complex, but it’s endearing in the way it captures the miracles that love can perform. Akari and Ryusei are totally different people from completely different worlds: she’s a happy and cheerful student living an ordinary life, while he is antisocial and grouchy, despite his good looks and his fame as an actor. Yet, they find peace and contentment in being together, and the connection they forge allows both of them to grow. Ryusei’s acting ability improves, and his reliance on Akari gives him the emotional release and strength that allows him to expand his range as a performer. Akari doesn’t develop new skills or discover any hidden talents, but finding that she alone can provide the stability and comfort Ryusei needs to fully pursue his career allows her to see that even someone ordinary can play an extraordinary role. It’s a wonderful example of how love can bring out the best in anyone.
I have more to say on this manga (and others!) in my blog! Check it out here:
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May 3, 2021
Today’s post is on Backstage Prince, Vol. 2 by Kanoko Sakurakouji. It is 192 pages long and is published by Shojo Beat. The cover has the main characters in it. As it is the second volume in the series you need to have read the first volume to understand the story. There is no foul language, no sex, and no violence in this series. The story is told from the third person close of Akari. There Be Spoilers Ahead.
From the back of the book- There's trouble brewing behind the kabuki curtain. Ryusei's dad doesn't want anything--or anyone!--distracting his son from his chosen profession. It's no secret that he disapproves of Ryusei's romance with Akari. Now he's determined to sabotage their relationship anyway he can!
Review- A very cute wrap up of a cute series. Akari and Ryusei are trying to make their relationship work with the normal shojo drama issues like disapproving parents and other people trying to steal them from each other. But of course we know that everything is going to work out. Neither Akari or Ryusei really change much over the course of the volume but that’s fine. What matters is that they will do anything to make their relationship work. If you are looking for a short, sweet series you need you try this one, it is was sweet, with likeable characters, and good art. I would recommend this series.
I give this volume a Five out of Five stars. I get nothing for my review and I bought this manga with my own money.
From the back of the book- There's trouble brewing behind the kabuki curtain. Ryusei's dad doesn't want anything--or anyone!--distracting his son from his chosen profession. It's no secret that he disapproves of Ryusei's romance with Akari. Now he's determined to sabotage their relationship anyway he can!
Review- A very cute wrap up of a cute series. Akari and Ryusei are trying to make their relationship work with the normal shojo drama issues like disapproving parents and other people trying to steal them from each other. But of course we know that everything is going to work out. Neither Akari or Ryusei really change much over the course of the volume but that’s fine. What matters is that they will do anything to make their relationship work. If you are looking for a short, sweet series you need you try this one, it is was sweet, with likeable characters, and good art. I would recommend this series.
I give this volume a Five out of Five stars. I get nothing for my review and I bought this manga with my own money.
December 16, 2019
*Volume 1 & 2 Review*
Backstage Prince was an interesting read. Being only two volumes long, the story couldn’t help but feel rushed
The story begins with an inciting incident that gets right to the overall plot of the story. Akari is a nice girl, pleasantly ordinary but flat in character. She doesn’t grow or change much throughout the story. Ryusei is every bit the dashing prince but is extremely antisocial so often comes across as rude and brutish. I get that he’s not good with feelings and expressing himself but sometimes he did not treat Akari well. At least you can see he does regret his behavior at times and makes some effort to change.
I wish that we could see more of the reaction Akari’s classmate have after learning who she is dating and whether they treat her differently or not. The reactions are 99% focused on the industry, media, and fan reactions.
I liked both volumes equally and the stakes do raise as the story progresses. It’s a nice story; a bit different from my usual reads which was a nice change.
Backstage Prince was an interesting read. Being only two volumes long, the story couldn’t help but feel rushed
The story begins with an inciting incident that gets right to the overall plot of the story. Akari is a nice girl, pleasantly ordinary but flat in character. She doesn’t grow or change much throughout the story. Ryusei is every bit the dashing prince but is extremely antisocial so often comes across as rude and brutish. I get that he’s not good with feelings and expressing himself but sometimes he did not treat Akari well. At least you can see he does regret his behavior at times and makes some effort to change.
I wish that we could see more of the reaction Akari’s classmate have after learning who she is dating and whether they treat her differently or not. The reactions are 99% focused on the industry, media, and fan reactions.
I liked both volumes equally and the stakes do raise as the story progresses. It’s a nice story; a bit different from my usual reads which was a nice change.
August 5, 2025
The pacing is so weird with this series. the first volume was trying to squish so much in, with the first chapter being like a one-shot and the whole volume seeming like a stand alone and while this volume expands a bit, it feels unfinished! That's how it goes with manga series though - their longevity depends on the popularity of the time and I guess this one was not popular enough. it is a basic trope shoujo romance. I enjoyed reading it.
December 13, 2022
I remeber liking volume 1 but when I started 2 I couldnt remember a thing from the first. This was cute but I dont think I found as much enjoyment in it as I did the first. Im a big fan of Black Bird and the art is pretty in both these series. If you are looking for a short and simple romance read this isnt too bad.
September 16, 2024
I'm really glad that this story got a sequel! I thought this volume was even better than the first. It had a lot of really sweet and sensitive moments that I enjoy. I'm such a sucker for characters who take their relationships seriously and even want to get married, even though they're so young. That trope is precious. I wish there were even more volumes! I'd keep going if I could!
December 3, 2018
It was a cute little series. ❤
August 28, 2024
A quick, but satisfying conclusion.
April 3, 2025
Cute but so much annoying drama in this one. I wish we could’ve seen more of their relationship instead of all the kabuki stuff.
May 29, 2025
I think I need to accept that a lot of Shōjo manga is just not for me.
There is nothing of substance in this short 2 volume run. A lot of meaningless fluff and boring storytelling.
There is nothing of substance in this short 2 volume run. A lot of meaningless fluff and boring storytelling.
February 16, 2020
Find this review and many more at Skye's Scribblings!
This is a review of the entire 2-volume series. I have posted it for both volumes.
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary Romance
Rated: Teen (minor sensuality)
Format Read: Paperbacks (purchased)
Why I Read It: I followed the series when it was serialized in the Shojo Beat magazines years ago, and when it came to my attention again this year I couldn't help but purchase the volumes for my collection.
Story: Since there are only two volumes, it's a simple plot - average girl falls for and is loved by famous, unsocial boy, but the prestigious family and public do not approve and cause uncertainty and angst for the relationship at every turn. Each of the seven chapters encompasses a story of resistance and perseverance of their love - after much drama, of course. While a common storyline, setting it in the world of kabuki added an original flavor, although we really only skim the surface on the subject as our viewpoint character Akari doesn't understand any of kabuki and tends to fall asleep during performances. Ah well.
Characters: Akari was highly insecure both about herself and her relationship with Ryusei, and it could get a little annoying at times. As I said before though, it was necessary for the drama, and thankfully it didn't last long. She was otherwise very strong and very good for Ryusei, and even though everyone else seemed to think she wouldn't fit in with the kabuki world, she totally did.
Ryusei was needy and possessive, which is apparently how Sakurakouji-sama likes her boys (see also Kyo from her award-winning Black Bird series). It worked well with this story though, and insecure Akari found it amusing instead of smothering so everything worked out. His antisocial personality made for an interesting twist, and I wish we could've delved a little into the reason behind it.
Romantic Relationship: While an absurdly immediate case of instalove, one has to take into account that it is only a 2-volume series. The "I love you"s had to be exchanged almost immediately so the drama could get to pulling them apart. Akari's insecurity and Ryusei's neediness were a little on the extreme side, but hers moved the drama and his the resolution so it worked.
Art & Setting: The characters have soft features and are on the pretty side of beautiful, which makes them more realistic and relatable. The backgrounds are mostly simple backdrops with the occasional detailed shots that are quite impressive and almost feel more like photos. It definitely had the feeling of a play that the story was going for.
Conclusion: A short, quick and sweet story that I enjoyed in the Shojo Beat magazines and shall continue to enjoy in the volumes.
Read It Again?: Many times more
For Fans Of: Sakurakouji's other series, Black Bird
This is a review of the entire 2-volume series. I have posted it for both volumes.
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary Romance
Rated: Teen (minor sensuality)
Format Read: Paperbacks (purchased)
Why I Read It: I followed the series when it was serialized in the Shojo Beat magazines years ago, and when it came to my attention again this year I couldn't help but purchase the volumes for my collection.
Story: Since there are only two volumes, it's a simple plot - average girl falls for and is loved by famous, unsocial boy, but the prestigious family and public do not approve and cause uncertainty and angst for the relationship at every turn. Each of the seven chapters encompasses a story of resistance and perseverance of their love - after much drama, of course. While a common storyline, setting it in the world of kabuki added an original flavor, although we really only skim the surface on the subject as our viewpoint character Akari doesn't understand any of kabuki and tends to fall asleep during performances. Ah well.
Characters: Akari was highly insecure both about herself and her relationship with Ryusei, and it could get a little annoying at times. As I said before though, it was necessary for the drama, and thankfully it didn't last long. She was otherwise very strong and very good for Ryusei, and even though everyone else seemed to think she wouldn't fit in with the kabuki world, she totally did.
Ryusei was needy and possessive, which is apparently how Sakurakouji-sama likes her boys (see also Kyo from her award-winning Black Bird series). It worked well with this story though, and insecure Akari found it amusing instead of smothering so everything worked out. His antisocial personality made for an interesting twist, and I wish we could've delved a little into the reason behind it.
Romantic Relationship: While an absurdly immediate case of instalove, one has to take into account that it is only a 2-volume series. The "I love you"s had to be exchanged almost immediately so the drama could get to pulling them apart. Akari's insecurity and Ryusei's neediness were a little on the extreme side, but hers moved the drama and his the resolution so it worked.
Art & Setting: The characters have soft features and are on the pretty side of beautiful, which makes them more realistic and relatable. The backgrounds are mostly simple backdrops with the occasional detailed shots that are quite impressive and almost feel more like photos. It definitely had the feeling of a play that the story was going for.
Conclusion: A short, quick and sweet story that I enjoyed in the Shojo Beat magazines and shall continue to enjoy in the volumes.
Read It Again?: Many times more
For Fans Of: Sakurakouji's other series, Black Bird
March 16, 2015
It was a good story, but the characters are barely characters. They're much more like cardboard cut-outs at times than actual people, fictional or otherwise. They have one motive, and not much personality otherwise. If the story had been drawn out for a few more volumes, they could have developed personalities, but with only two volumes, there's not too much you can do, I guess. But still, the story was good, even though it was a bit repetitive and the characters were kinda flat, so I still gave it three stars.
December 8, 2011
This one was a much better put together novel than the first one. There were continuing storylines that actually still seemed to grow and develop. However this still is not my type of story and glad it was only two novels. This is a "feel good" sort of story where there is no real anticipation of something going wrong. If you want a romance that is just a feel good, this might be the story for you. I like a little more depth than these novels or characters brought to the table.
May 19, 2013
I'm upset. Mad. Depressed. Happy. Joyful. And loved. This was a very cute story that " kinda makes sense in the real world. It became a little annoying to me with the characters actions, moves, and motives. But I felt strongly connected with the main characters. I felt that they knew what was gonna happen if they made a wrong choice. But I felt that this book kinda helped in a way of living a life with a famous boyfriend!
March 17, 2012
As bad or worse than volume one. The addition of the most benign villain in history doesn't help the story. I also don't appreciate that the extent of the relationship seems to be him ordering her around and getting angry that she's late.
September 1, 2008
Cute, but quite shallow. Still, sweet enough.
November 4, 2008
I really liked this series. Sad it was so short.
March 13, 2012
A nice conclusion to a cute series. I JUST WISH IT WAS LONGER. T.T
September 27, 2014
just two volumes :(
May 17, 2015
LOVED!
June 30, 2015
Sweet. Hehe
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews