Discovering THE WORLD OF KABUKI

Know Nippon is a seminar series by MPKEN that explores Japan through the eyes of its younger generation. 

In each session, Japanese high school and university students research and present topics related to Japanese history, culture, society, and everyday life - in English. 

The series offers participants from Japan and around the world an opportunity to discover Japan from the perspective of young Japanese people.

For our November session of Know Nippon, we will explore the fascinating world of Kabuki, one of Japan’s most distinctive traditional performing arts.

“Discovering the World of Kabuki: Onnagata, Stories & Secrets of the Stage” will introduce the history and unique features of Kabuki, from its actors, costumes, makeup, music, and stage conventions to the stories it tells.

A special focus will be onnagata, the tradition of male actors performing female roles. We will explore its origins and how actors express femininity through voice, movement, makeup, and costume.

We will also look at two major types of Kabuki plays: historical stories (時代物) and stories about ordinary people (世話物), along with several famous plays and their stories.

Finally, we will explore how to “read” and enjoy Kabuki, including its distinctive expressions, movements, music, and stage conventions, before wrapping up with a Q&A and discussion.

Date & Time

Friday, November 06｜8:00 PM – 9:00 PM　Japan time

Online

Zoom Meetings

Speaker

Tsuda Tamaki

Participation Fee

Free

• Those interested in Japanese history and culture

• Those who would like to learn more about Japanese culture

• Those who want to learn about Japan in English

• Foreign residents who would like to know more about Japan

Know Nippon is a seminar series where participants can learn about Japanese history, culture, and society in English while connecting and exchanging ideas with others.

We look forward to having you join us!