The live-action adaptation of Coffee’s hit manga Wandance has officially revealed its female lead. Actress Anji Ikehata has been cast as Hikari Wanda, the energetic and free-spirited dancer who plays a central role in the coming-of-age story.
The announcement was made through a newly released teaser trailer and character visual shared on the film’s official website. The reveal gives fans their first look at Ikehata in the role as anticipation builds for the movie’s theatrical release in Japan.
Anji Ikehata Steps Into the Role of Hikari Wanda
Anji Ikehata will play Hikari Wanda, the talented and free-spirited dancer who changes the course of protagonist Kaboku Kotani’s life. In the original manga, Hikari’s passion for dance inspires the quiet and reserved Kaboku to step outside his comfort zone, making her one of the story’s most important characters.
Ikehata brings growing experience in live-action adaptations, with previous roles in Lonely Castle in the Mirror and Yano-kun no Futsū no Hibi. Her casting has been welcomed by fans eager to see whether she can capture Hikari’s infectious energy and the emotional depth that made the character a standout in Coffee’s manga.
She joins &TEAM member JO, who was previously announced as Kaboku Kotani. Together, the two actors will lead the coming-of-age drama, bringing the manga’s central relationship and love of dance to the big screen.
The Creative Team Bringing Wandance to Life
The live-action adaptation is directed by Naoya Kusaba, with Keiichi Kobayashi writing the screenplay. Their goal is to faithfully adapt the manga while preserving the emotional storytelling that has made Wandance a favorite among readers.
One of the film’s biggest creative strengths is its focus on authentic choreography. Dance supervisor Charisma Kantarō is overseeing the film’s performances, ensuring that dance remains at the center of the story rather than serving as a simple visual spectacle.
That approach reflects the source material, where dance is more than entertainment. It becomes the language through which the characters express fear, confidence, friendship, and personal growth. Fans will be watching closely to see how those emotional moments translate from manga panels to live-action performances.
