The Great Theater Arts of Japan
July 1, 2009
Japanese Temple in Tokyo
Japanese performance art is some of the most remarkable, contemplative and innovative in the world’s history.
Going to Japan means great food, amazing culture, thriving energy and unique performance. Second to Kyoto’s temples, the great artforms of Japan have transformed how the rest of the world views theater.
When in Tokyo, begin with the highly popular Kabuki-Za Theater in the Ginza prefecture.
What one notices immediately is the vibrancy in the crowd. Westerners are accustomed to a quiet, passive audience. With Kabuki, the audience is more chatty and alive. You can eat during the performance, for example. Kabuki performance would be the ‘coarsest’ of artforms in Japan, but more accessible. So, be sure to arrive early and get a good seat. Kabuki is very special, and definitely not to be missed.
The most refined artform in Japan is the ancient “No” Drama.
Normally, one performance lasts for 7 hours so be prepared for a long afternoon. The movement within the No Drama is languid, slow and meditative. The music is in rhythm (usually) with the movement, and can be very different for the western ear. Having an open mind is required for the No Drama. Be prepared to be dazzled at the stability and stillness, with some extraordinary dance mixed in. With no Japanese artform should you expect to follow the story, along the lines of American Theater. Rather, you should view it as an experience unlike any other.
The Bunraku puppets are best viewed in Osaka, which is a quick train ride from Kyoto.
The National Bunraku Theater might be the finest facility to view any performance in Japan. It is a short ride from the train station, and well worth the visit. The ticket prices for Japanese Theater can be rather high so expect to pay Broadway prices. What one notices right away is the puppeteers. The men, dressed in black, are in full view along with the amazing puppets. Their skill is nothing short of remarkable. The puppets spring to life with a skill unseen in the west. Also, be prepared for some spectacular effects. Bunraku is known for building remarkable scenic effects to close out the various acts within the show. So, be sure to pay attention, as you won’t want to miss these very special moments.
Ultimately, your goal is not to understand ‘what happens’.
The Japanese theater forces you to leave your western-cultural biases behind. Instead, view these forms as something new to experience and feel your way through. After viewing, you will be out and about in busy Tokyo, Osaka or Kyoto…likely thirsting for the quiet serenity experienced within the theater.
Brought to you by: Sealand Travel.
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The Great Theater Arts of Japan…
Japanese performance art is some of the most remarkable, contemplative and innovative in the world’s history.
Going to Japan means great food, amazing culture, thriving energy and unique performance. Second to Kyoto’s temples, the great artforms o…