Medieval Japanese Theater

1
Medieval Japanese Theater
2
Noh

• A form of art blending poetry, dance, and music
  (14th century)
• Strictly suited for the autocracy (until after
  WW2)

3

• No stage sets (only backdrop)
• A bridge called hashigari connects the dressing
  rooms to the stage
• In medieval times Noh productions were staged
  outdoors at shrines and temples

4

• All the parts are played by men
• Shi-te (main actors) waki (supporting actors)
• Both types of actors often have companions
• Painted wooden masks are worn

5

• Musicians and chorus are called jiutai
• Usually consist of 8 sitting at the back or the
  sides
• They narrate the story or the characters
  emotions
• Nohkan (flute), tsusumi (hand-drums), taiko
  (floor drums)

6
Kyogen

• A comic interlude in between noh plays
• A light relief for the audience presented in
  plain humourisic language contrasting of the
  sophisticated noh
• Satire for the commoners in medieval times

7
Kabuki

• A spoken drama inspired by kyogen
• Specificity of stage design

Hancmichi bridge where actors enter Seri
platform where actors appear and
disappear Mawari butai revolving stage
allowing for instant set change
8
Costumes

• High-ranking characters wear elaborate luxurious
  costumes
• Lower characters wear everyday kimono
• Heavy make-up is used for creating expressions
  and mood

9

• Kabuki dates from 1603 in Kyoto
• A woman named Okuni led a group of dancers
  performing by the Kamo river
• It came under scrutiny from authorities
• Shounate banned women from stage (1629)

10
Bunraku

• An ancient form of puppet theater
• Puppets are 1/3 life size, stringless and held by
  three handlers.
• Puppeteers usually appear in plain black kimono

11

• Tayu chanter who recites the story
• Shamisen accompanying string instrument

• Bunraku dates back to early 19th century in Osaka

• Chikamatsu Monzaemon most famous playwright