Japanese Classical Theatre Flashcards

What are the three types of classical theatre of Japan?

What is Noh's comic counterpart?

Which Japanese classical theatre is the oldest continually performed theatrical tradition in the world?

When was Noh perfected?

What is Noh theatre?

What are Noh Dramas?

In Noh dramas, what is the single character that the play is centered around?

In Noh dramas, what is the name of the character who challenges the Shite?

Which character is the only character to wear a mask during a Noh play?

Why does Noh have a distinctive slow walk?

What is the bridge-like runway used in Noh plays?

What three words does Kabuki originate from?

What are the three categories of Kabuki plays?

Kabuki has always been considered dinner theatre.

What is the name of the feature runway used in Kabuki?

What is the name of the spot that is seven tenths away from the audience popular for speeches, etc.?

What are the two ways men's parts are played?

Japanese Classical Theatre Overview

Three prominent types: Noh, Kabuki, and Bunraku.

Noh Theatre

Oldest continuously performed theatrical tradition in the world.
Perfected in the 14th and 15th centuries by Kan'ami and Zeami, a father-son duo.
A highly ceremonial form featuring supernatural characters, performed by actors trained from birth.
Noh dramas reflect Shinto and Buddhist values, with plots emphasizing mood rather than action.
The central character of Noh plays is called Shite, while the challenger is the Waki.

Noh Performance Characteristics

Only the Shite character wears a mask.
Unique slow walking style mimics traversing rice paddies.
The bridge-like runway used in Noh is called the hashigakari.

Kabuki Theatre

The term Kabuki derives from three words: Ka (song), Bu (dance), and Ki (skill).
Kabuki plays are categorized into history plays, domestic dramas, and dance dramas.
Historically referred to as dinner theatre.

Kabuki Performance Features

The feature runway is known as the hanamichi.
A notable performance spot, shichi-san, is positioned seven-tenths away from the audience for impactful speeches.
Hikinuki technique allows for rapid costume changes during performances.

Special Character Roles in Kabuki

Onnogata refers to male actors portraying female roles.
Male roles can be performed in two styles: Aragoto (wild) and Wagoto (soft).

Bunraku Theatre

Founded in the 17th century, it features puppetry that mimics the action of the play.

Test your knowledge on Japan's rich theatrical traditions with these flashcards! Explore the three main types of classical theatre, discover the unique aspects of Noh, and learn about its historical background. Perfect for students and enthusiasts alike!