1. Dramas of Life in Feudal Japan
Kabuki Theater
Dramas of Life in Feudal Japan

2. What is Kabuki theater?
A theatrical art that combines music, dance, and drama performed against spectacular stage settings.

3. Background info Most important art form during Tokugawa Japan
Used as an escape from hardships of life
Considered exciting and unconventional
Incorporates spectacular scenery and lovely costumes
Themes of heroism, loyalty and tragedy
Uses special effects
Lighting
Illusions (elements of fire, hurricanes, snowstorms)

4. costumes Strong colors used Makeup, costumes, scenery and settings
Red, black, green, gold
Makeup, costumes, scenery and settings

5. Costumes

6. Costumes

7. background

8. background

9. Kabuki skit Work in groups of 3-4
Choose a social class (one group per social class)
Each skit must meet the following requirements
Length of 3-5 minutes
Music played during skit
Special effects – one effect incorporated into the skit
Costumes – everyone wears appropriate costume
Props – used to enhance the performance
Background – used for each scene in the skit
Historical accuracy – must accurately show what life was like in Feudal Japan for your assigned social class

10. Kabuki skit Burakumin Court Nobles Merchants Zen Monks and Nuns Ainu
Peasants
Artisans
Samurai