Kabuki

Overview

Kabuki is one of Japan's best-known traditional performing arts. It combines elements of theater, dance, and music. In 2009, it was recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Dazzling costumes, striking makeup, and graceful movement... Kabuki acting is highly stylized, and the audience appreciates the many conventions. But Kabuki isn't stuffy. There are thrilling fight scenes and elaborate set designs. Audience members call out the names of the various houses of Kabuki actors. Kabuki was born in the early 17th century. It can be traced to a former shrine maiden with a very unusual style of dancing. On this edition of BEGIN Japanology, we look at Kabuki. Its timeless appeal rests on a unique sense of beauty and a great generosity of spirit.