Japanese Theater Noh Kabuki

Created By David Kov Justin Pace Madison Johnson Makayla Mortensen Logan Fulgham Hayley Yates

Origins The first Noh plays emerged from the ritualistic dance of the Shinto religion.

Prominent Playwrights Kyoka Izumi- wrote “The Operating Room,” “The Holy Man of Mount Kaya,” and “Night Watchman” Isumo no Okuni- First performer/author in Kabuki

Contributions to Theatre now Revolving Stage- used to make quick scene changes. Color, Style, Costumes Hanamichi/ “flower walk”- aisle down middle of audience

Japanese Theatre Today Japanese theatre today has not changed much since the early performances

Noh: 能 It is performed since the 14 th century It later influenced other drama forms such as Kabuki According to Zeami who brought Noh, all Noh should create an aesthetic ideals called “Yugen”(subtle) and performed spirit and “Hana”(novelty).

Mask Noh is unique its slow and its use of distinctive masks All masks have names Usually only Shite, the main player, takes the mask. However in some cases the Tsure may also take mask particularly for female roles. The Noh masks are used to portray a female or nonhuman character (divine, demon, animal)

Stage Noh play takes place on a stage made of Hinoki wood (cypress) Stage is bare with the exception of the “kagamiita”, a painting of pine tree at the back of the stage.

Another unique features of the stage is the “Higashigakari”, the narrow bridge to the left of the stage that the principal actors use to enter the stage

Costumes In contrast to the unadorned stage, costumes are lavish. Especially those in the Shite role wear rich silk brocades.

Kabuki: 歌舞伎 歌 : sing 舞 : dance 伎 : skill Therefore sometimes it translated as “the art of singing and dancing”

History The history of Kabuki began in 1603 when Okuni who called herself a priestess began performing a new style of dance drama in Kyoto. Female performers played both men and women. It was bout ordinary life. The style was instantly popular. Rival troupes quickly formed and Kabuki was born as ensemble dance drama performed by women. Much of its appeal in this era was due to the ribald, suggestive performances put on by many of the imitators; these actresses were often available for prostitution.

Stage Kabuki stage and theaters have steadily become more technologically sophisticated and innovations including revolving stages and trap doors. The kabuki stage features a projection called “Hanamichi” ( 花道： literally flower path) which is a walkway extends into the audience and via which dramatic entranced exits are made.

Sources presentacii/2_Japanese%20Theater.ppt #256,1,Japanese%20Theater%20%20 Noh%20Kabuki%20Bunraku /A-Bunraku-performance-in- Osaka-Japan