🕓 2023/12/28
＃文化
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Kabuki is a traditional form of Japanese theater, known for its unique staging, costumes, and methods of expression. This article deeply explores everything from the basics of Kabuki to its allure, and places where it can be experienced.
Kabuki is a traditional Japanese theater form, characterized by rich colors, dramatic makeup, and splendid costumes.
It originated around 1603 and was initially performed by women, but later became a male-only theater form.
Kabuki is known for its combination of singing (song), dancing (dance), and skill (technique). On stage, actors use exaggerated gestures and a unique vocal style to narrate stories. The repertoire ranges from classical samurai stories to modern social dramas.
Additionally, the stagecraft and props are unique, featuring rapid scene changes and revolving stages. Today, it is highly regarded worldwide as a symbol of Japanese culture.
Kabuki is a traditional Japanese theater that began in 1603 in Kyoto, started by Izumo no Okuni, and originated from complicated dances like Kabuki dance.
It evolved through the Edo period, transitioning from female Kabuki to young men's Kabuki, and then to male Kabuki.
Characterized by flamboyant costumes, exaggerated makeup, and stylized movements, it continues to be loved as a unique art form that merges the three elements of song, dance, and skill.
In 1965, it was designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan, received UNESCO's Proclamation of Masterpieces in 2005, and was listed in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009, gaining international recognition.
Special props are essential on the Kabuki stage to enhance the visual appeal and vividly portray stories.
Revolving Stage：
Trapdoors (Seri)：
Hanamichi (Flower Path)：
Kurogo (Black Curtain) and Yuka (Stage Floor)：
Gandō Turn (Scene Change Mechanism)：
There are two main categories of Kabuki: "Jidaimono" (period pieces) and "Sewamono" (domestic dramas), each with different themes and styles.
・Jidaimono:
・Sewamono：
Over time, these genres evolved. In the Meiji era, Jidaimono became "Katsureki" (living history) plays based on historical and period research, but they often failed to gain public support.
Conversely, Sewamono introduced new Meiji-era customs in "Chirakizome" (spreading dye) plays. Additionally, playwrights emerged, establishing a group of works known as "New Kabuki".
There are many theaters in Japan where Kabuki can be watched, especially the famous Kabuki-za in Tokyo and Minami-za in Kyoto. These theaters offer valuable experiences in conveying traditional Kabuki to the modern era.