KABUKI KOOL
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Play S1 E1Kabuki is a world-class theater with a history of over 400 years, but is also exciting entertainment. What is the secret of its enduring attraction? Haruka Christine, Nakamura Kazutaro, and Ichikawa Somegoro guide us through the world of kabuki.
Cast: Ainosuke Kataoka, Sarah Àlainn
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10 episodes
- 1. Enjoying Kabuki with Ichikawa Somegoro VIIIn the first program, we will watch entertaining short clips from great classics of kabuki as an easy key to enjoying the dazzling variety of kabuki. Also, Somegoro will explain why and how he became a kabuki actor and what it means to become part of a long acting tradition.NRCC28minApr 16, 2014
- 2. The Beauty of OnnagataThis time we will look at one of the truly unique features of kabuki. There are no female actresses in kabuki and all female roles are played by male actors called "onnagata." Where did this tradition come from? What is the beauty of acting that can only be performed by onnagata? Join us as we explore the fascinating world of onnagata.NRCC28minMay 21, 2014
- 3. Unique Kabuki Stage StructuresThis time we're looking at the unique stage devices used in kabuki performance -- amazing, ground-breaking mechanisms that have been used for over 250 years.NRCC28minJun 18, 2014
- 4. Larger-Than-Life HeroesHeroes with superhuman powers take the stage in aragoto plays which have stayed popular for over 300 years. Learn about its unique make-up and mie poses that gets the audience excited.NRCC28minJul 16, 2014
- 5. Kabuki's Leading Male RolesKabuki's leading male roles. There are so many different types, and even villains take the lead! But all of them are irresistibly attractive. Learn about their lives and tragic fates.NRCC28minSep 17, 2014
- 6. Chushingura: The Treasury of Loyal RetainersChushingura is a particularly important kabuki play, and has been hugely popular since its premiere over 200 years ago. Find out why, and the history behind this dramatic story about loyal samurai.NRCC28minOct 15, 2014
- 7. The Shakespeare of Japan: Chikamatsu MonzaemonExplore the world of Chikamatsu Monzaemon, one of Japan's greatest playwrights. His vivid depictions of raw human drama are still hugely popular today. He is nicknamed the "Japanese Shakespeare."NRCC28minNov 19, 2014
- 8. Unique Kabuki PropsSwords and pipes, fantastic objects and things from daily life — kabuki uses a variety of stage props, most of which have not changed since hundreds of years ago. Find out how kabuki actors make use of them to great effect.NRCC28minDec 17, 2014
- 9. Wagoto: Ladies' Man as HeroThe heroes of wagoto style of kabuki aren't very strong or dependable. They are soft and romantic, and can also be comical at times. See Ichikawa Somegoro's delightful performance as a ladies' man.NRCC28minJan 21, 2015
- 10. Charming VillainsThe more attractive a villain is the more enjoyable kabuki becomes. From a murderous criminal to a scoundrel on the street, see the charming villains of kabuki take center stage.NRCC28minFeb 18, 2015
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KABUKI KOOL
20148 seasons80 episodesReturning Series
Kabuki is a world-class theater with a history of over 400 years, but is also exciting entertainment. What is the secret of its enduring attraction? Haruka Christine, Nakamura Kazutaro, and Ichikawa Somegoro guide us through the world of kabuki.
Creators and cast
- Studio
- NHK WORLD-JAPAN
Maturity rating
NRCheck the rating before watching with younger viewers.
Audio languages
English, Japanese
Where to watch
Not currently listed on any streaming, rental or purchase service.
