kabuki

Kabuki actors Singers and an orchestra of drums, flutes, wooden clappers, and samisen (a stringed instrument similar to the banjo) accompanied the highly stylized dialogue, lively and often violent action, and captivating dances of Kabuki.

The history of kabuki began in 1603 when Izumo no Okuni, possibly a miko of Izumo-taisha, began performing with a troupe of female dancers a new style of dance drama, on a makeshift stage in the dry bed of the Kamo River in Kyoto, at the very beginning of the Edo period, and Japan's rule by the Tokugawa shogunate, ...

The characteristics of Kabuki are the combination of rhythmical words, unique dancing, gorgeous costumes and elaborate stage settings, colorful make-up, and music played on traditional musical instruments including shamisen. It does not emphasize realism, but has its own unique formalities.

The music can be divided into two main categories: Geza-ongaku (off-stage music) and Shosa-ongaku (on-stage music), with Ki and Tsuke wood board "signalling" accents complementing the ensemble.

Kabuki is a Japanese theatrical art form, defined by mime, acting, and music, but primarily by dance. Kabuki was developed by a shrine attendant named Izumo no Okuni around 1603 in Kyoto. Originally performed by women, it was a popular art for the masses with flamboyant and irreverent dances.

Izumo no Okuni Kabuki literally means, song and dance. It was founded in the early 17th century in Kyoto by a female temple dancer, Izumo no Okuni.

Izumo no Okuni Kabuki literally means, song and dance. It was founded in the early 17th century in Kyoto by a female temple dancer, Izumo no Okuni.

Kabuki music can be divided into three categories: geza, shosa-ongaku, and ki and tsuke.

The word 'ka-bu-ki' itself is made up of three characters that mean 'song' (ka-歌), 'dance' (bu-舞) and 'acting skill' (ki-伎), indicating the composite nature of this art that includes elements of music, dance and drama, disciplines that would in most other cases be performed separately.

Dynamic stage sets such as revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the prompt changing of a scene or the appearance/disappearance of actors. Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge (hanamichi) that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit.

There is a wide variety of props, including umbrellas, tenugui (hand-cloths) and swords. Among them, the sensu (folding fan) is an essential prop and is often used in suodori, in which costumes and stages, as well as props, are simplified.

Today, 'kabuki' is recognized internationally as one of Japan's great performing arts. Essentially a popular theatre, it has always reflected the tastes and fashions of the townspeople.