Actresses Haruka Ayase and Mio Imada are set to host the storied "Red and White Singing Contest," a beloved annual capstone event in Japan broadcast on New Year's Eve. Often colloquially referred to as simply the "Red and White," the show traditionally involves popular music artists split into two teams - red (women) and white (men). The two hosts will guide viewers through the colorful, tune-filled evening that rings in the new year.

The Red and White show is significant to the Japanese public as it's seen as a quintessential end-of-year tradition, drawing families together to enjoy renditions of the year's most popular songs. It encapsulates much of the year's cultural moments, as the roster represents a year of music trends. The appointment of the hosts is keenly followed as an integral aspect of the show, because they play a significant role in setting the tone for the evening.

In the context of the US, the Red and White show could be likened to Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest - a star-studded musical event to welcome the New Year. However, the Red and White show combines an almost competitive spirit with festive celebration, making it unique in its presentation.