【English Subtitled 】Learning about Kabuki via Videos: ‘Kabuki for Beginners’

Summary

This video features Kabuki actor Katanosuke Kato introducing the basics and charm of Kabuki theater in a two-part series. The first part explains key foundational knowledge that enhances the Kabuki experience, such as stage terminology, sound effects like 'tsuke' used during dramatic scenes, and the role of 'onnagata' – male actors playing female roles. Various stage mechanisms, including the 'seri' (trapdoor lift) and the 'hanamichi' (flower path), are also demonstrated. In the second part, viewers are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at makeup and costume preparations, leading up to a performance of a classic scene from 'Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami.'

Takeaways

• 🎭 The video is introduced by Kabuki actor Ainosuke Kataoka, aiming to explain the basics and appeal of Kabuki through a two-part series.
• 📺 Viewers are shown a digest of Kabuki performances to give them an early preview of what to expect.
• 👘 The stage directions, such as 'kamite' (stage right) and 'shimote' (stage left), are explained, helping viewers understand Kabuki stage positioning.
• 🔊 The use of unique sound effects like 'tsuke' (the clapping of wooden blocks) is introduced, adding emphasis to actors' movements during scenes.
• ⚔️ A demonstration of Kabuki fight scenes is shown, highlighting the choreography and dramatic use of sound.
• 💃 The concept of 'onnagata', male actors performing female roles, is explained along with the detailed body posture required to portray female characters.
• 🎥 Kabuki’s stage mechanisms, such as the 'seri' (a stage elevator), are introduced, noting that this innovation dates back to the Edo period.
• 🌸 The 'hanamichi' (flower path), a distinctive feature of Kabuki theater, is discussed, showing its significance in performances.
• 👗 Behind-the-scenes footage is promised, giving a glimpse into makeup, costumes, and preparations for Kabuki performances.
• 📖 In the second part, the focus shifts to showcasing scenes from the famous play 'Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami', including the 'Kuruma Biki' scene.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the video?

The main theme of the video is an introduction to the basics and charm of Kabuki theater, explained in two parts: the basics and behind-the-scenes aspects.

Who is the host of the video?

The host of the video is Kataoka Ainosuke, a well-known Kabuki actor.

What will be discussed in the first part of the video?

In the first part, the video covers basic knowledge of Kabuki that can significantly enhance the audience’s enjoyment, including terms like 'kamite' and 'shimote,' and explains various sound effects like 'tsuke' used during performances.

What does 'kamite' and 'shimote' refer to in Kabuki theater?

'Kamite' refers to the stage right from the audience's perspective, and 'shimote' refers to the stage left.

What is the significance of the sound 'tsuke' in Kabuki?

'Tsuke' is a sound effect produced by hitting wooden blocks to emphasize the actors' movements and create dramatic effects during the performance.

What is a 'tachimawari' scene?

A 'tachimawari' scene is a fight or combat scene in Kabuki, often accompanied by dramatic sound effects like 'tsuke.'

What is a 'onnagata' in Kabuki?

An 'onnagata' is a male actor who plays female roles in Kabuki, embodying graceful and stylized feminine movements and gestures.

What is the role of 'seri' in Kabuki theater?

'Seri' is a stage mechanism that works like an elevator, allowing actors to rise or descend during the performance. It has been used since the Edo period.

What is 'hanamichi' and its significance?

'Hanamichi' is a walkway that extends into the audience, allowing actors to make dramatic entrances and exits. It is a defining feature of Kabuki theaters.

What can viewers expect in the second part of the video?

The second part of the video will showcase a scene from the play 'Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami' and provide an inside look into makeup, costume preparation, and other behind-the-scenes aspects of Kabuki.