The most famous form of traditional Japanese theater is called Kabuki and traces back to the early 17th century in Kyoto. It quickly spread to Edo, and kabuki theaters became popular as they featured the latest fashions and entertainment. The years 1673 – 1836 were considered to be the golden age of kabuki, where the structure of plays and character types were established.
Kabuki involves elaborate costumes, bright makeup, large wigs, and very exaggerated performances by the actors. The exaggerations are especially important for the audience to understand the meaning, because Kabuki is often performed in a very old-fashioned form of Japanese that is difficult for modern Japanese people to understand.
The stage sets include revolving platforms and trapdoors which allow for quick changes of scenes and costumes. There is also a footbridge that leads through the audience allowing for dramatic entrances and exits. Live music is performed using traditional instruments. Plots are based on historical events, warm hearted dramas, moral conflicts, love stories, and tragedies. What makes Kabuki unique is that the show is often only a part of the entire story, usually the best part, and therefore the audience is encouraged to read a little about the story before attending the show for the full experience.
Kabuki used to only be acted by women when it originated. However, during the Edo Period a restriction was placed forbidding women from participating and even to the present day it is performed solely by men. Many male kabuki actors are specialized in played female roles, called onnagata.
Sources cited:
Kabuki. Theater. (n.d.). Retrieved January 30, 2022, from https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2090.html
Organization, J. N. T. (2021, August 16). Theater in Japan: Kabuki: Travel Japan: Jnto. Travel Japan. Retrieved January 30, 2022, from https://www.japan.travel/en/guide/theater/
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