A classical Japanese theatre form combining dramatic performance and traditional dance, recognised for stylised acting, ornate costumes, and distinctive makeup.

Who was Izumo no Okuni?

A former shrine maiden associated with kabuki’s beginnings. Around 1603, she led a troupe of young women performing dance drama and sketches in Kyoto.

What does the word kabuku mean?

The verb kabuku is believed to mean “to lean” or “to be out of the ordinary,” suggesting kabuki’s association with unconventional or avant-garde performance.

What was the effect of the 1629 ban?

Women were prohibited from performing kabuki, leading first to performances by boys and later to a theatre dominated by adult male actors.

A male kabuki actor who specialises in performing a woman’s role. Onnagata became an established part of the all-male kabuki tradition.

Theatre & performanceLesson 3 of 3 in the course Theatre history

Kabuki: Origins, Performance Conventions, and Modern Adaptation

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

This lesson introduces kabuki and traces its origins from early performances in Kyoto to the all-male theatrical tradition.

Kabuki is a classical form of Japanese theatre that combines dramatic acting with traditional dance. It is known for highly stylised performance, elaborate costumes, and striking stage makeup called kumadori. The art form developed across several centuries and became an influential part of Japanese urban culture.

All flashcards

What is kabuki?: A classical Japanese theatre form combining dramatic performance and traditional dance, recognised for stylised acting, ornate costumes, and distinctive makeup.
Who was Izumo no Okuni?: A former shrine maiden associated with kabuki’s beginnings. Around 1603, she led a troupe of young women performing dance drama and sketches in Kyoto.
What does the word kabuku mean?: The verb kabuku is believed to mean “to lean” or “to be out of the ordinary,” suggesting kabuki’s association with unconventional or avant-garde performance.
What was the effect of the 1629 ban?: Women were prohibited from performing kabuki, leading first to performances by boys and later to a theatre dominated by adult male actors.
Who is an onnagata?: A male kabuki actor who specialises in performing a woman’s role. Onnagata became an established part of the all-male kabuki tradition.

Quiz questions

What is the hanamichi in a kabuki theatre?Answer: A walkway through the audience used for entrances and scenes.
Which kabuki play category focuses on historical stories?Answer: Jidaimono.
What is a mawari-butai?Answer: A revolving stage.
What is a kakegoe in kabuki?Answer: A timed shout of appreciation using an actor’s house name.
What does a shūmei ceremony mark for a kabuki actor?Answer: The public assumption of a new stage name.

Based on the Wikipedia article Kabuki, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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