Japanese Theater https www youtube comwatch v67 bg

Japanese Theater https: //www. youtube. com/watch? v=67 -bg. SFJi. Kc

Kabuki: 歌舞伎 ©歌: sing ©舞: dance ©伎: skill Therefore sometimes it translated as “the art of singing and dancing” ©Considered drama for the “common folk”

History © Began in 1603 when Okuni who called herself a priestess began performing new style of dance drama in Kyoto © Female performers played both men and women © Stories about ordinary life. 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; actresses were often prostitute © Continued though women were banned from stage in 1629 (Government thought it was scandalous/morally dangerous) © Women not allowed again until 1980 s (I think)

Characteristics 1. Use of exaggerated body movements, monotone voice & dance accompanied by Japanese instruments 2. Use of makeup and wigs to convey character (makeup referred to as Kumodori and is very non-realistic) 3. Use of universal themes/historical events 4. LOTS of props, scenery, costumes, etc.

Stage © Have become more and more sophisticated/complex © 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.