Kabuki: The people's dramatic art - Amanda Mattes

Summary

Kabuki, a classical Japanese theater form, has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Originating from Izumo no Okuni's daring performances, it evolved through various stages, including Onna-Kabuki, Wakashu-Kabuki, and Yaro-Kabuki, reflecting societal norms and censorship. With influences from Bunraku, Kabuki developed into a structured play. Despite challenges, it has endured, influencing Western artists like Monet and van Gogh, and adapting to modern media, remaining a vital part of Japan's cultural heritage.

Takeaways

• 🎭 **Kabuki Origin**: Kabuki originated in the early 17th century in Kyoto, starting with Izumo no Okuni's unusual dances.
• 🌏 **Global Recognition**: While known worldwide, Kabuki is not as well understood in the West compared to other Japanese cultural elements.
• 👤 **Evolution of Performers**: Initially performed by women (Onna-Kabuki), it evolved to include young boys (Wakashu-Kabuki) and eventually men (Yaro-Kabuki).
• 🎭 **Distinctiveness**: Kabuki differentiated itself from Noh theater by using makeup and focusing on historical events and everyday life.
• 🚫 **Censorship**: The Tokugawa shogunate imposed strict controls on Kabuki, including bans on performers' gender and age, and restrictions on costumes and themes.
• 🤝 **Influence on Art**: European artists like Monet and van Gogh were inspired by Japanese art, including Kabuki, incorporating its elements into their works.
• 🌐 **Post-Isolation Influence**: After Japan's isolation period, Kabuki continued to influence Western artists like Debussy and adapt to modern times.
• 📉 **Post-War Decline**: Kabuki's popularity declined after World War II but was revitalized by innovators like Tetsuji Takechi.
• 🎖️ **Cultural Relevance**: Despite U.S. censorship, Kabuki was popular among American troops in Japan, highlighting its cultural significance.
• 🌟 **Ongoing Influence**: Today, Kabuki remains a vital part of Japanese culture, with its influence extending to television, film, and anime.

Q & A

What is the origin of the word 'Kabuki'?

The word 'Kabuki' is derived from the Japanese verb 'kabuk', which means 'out of the ordinary' or 'bizarre'.

Who is credited with starting Kabuki and how did it begin?

A shrine maiden named Izumo no Okuni is credited with starting Kabuki in early 17th century Kyoto. She performed unusual dances for passerby on the dry Kamo Riverbed.

How did Kabuki differentiate itself from Noh theater?

Kabuki differentiated itself from Noh theater by relying on makeup and facial expressions instead of masks, and by focusing on historical events and everyday life rather than folk tales.

What was the initial gender of performers in Kabuki known as Onna-Kabuki?

Onna-Kabuki was initially performed by females and later evolved to an ensemble performance with both genders.

What led to the ban of Onna-Kabuki and the emergence of Wakashu-Kabuki?

The conservative Tokugawa shogunate banned Onna-Kabuki in 1629 due to its risqué nature, leading to the emergence of Wakashu-Kabuki with young boys as actors.

How did Kabuki evolve into Yaro-Kabuki after the ban on Wakashu-Kabuki?

After Wakashu-Kabuki was also banned for similar reasons, there was a transition to Yaro-Kabuki, performed by men, which necessitated elaborate costumes and makeup for those playing female roles.

What were the sanctions imposed by the Tokugawa military group on Kabuki?

The Tokugawa military group, or Bakufu, enacted sanctions on costume fabrics, stage weaponry, and the subject matter of the plot.

How did Kabuki become associated with Bunraku, and what was the impact?

Kabuki became closely associated with and influenced by Bunraku, an elaborate form of puppet theater. This influence led to the evolution of Kabuki from a spontaneous one-act dance into a structured, five-act play.

What was Japan's policy of isolation known as, and how did it affect Kabuki's development?

Japan's policy of isolation was known as Sakoku. As a result, the development of Kabuki was mostly shaped by domestic influences until the fall of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1868.

How did European artists like Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh interact with Kabuki?

European artists such as Claude Monet were interested in and inspired by Japanese art, including Kabuki. After 1868, artists like Vincent van Gogh and composer Claude Debussy began to incorporate Kabuki influences in their work.

What challenges did Kabuki face after World War II, and how did it recover?

Kabuki suffered in popularity after World War II, but innovation by artists like director Tetsuji Takechi led to a resurgence shortly after.

How has Kabuki extended its influence beyond the stage in contemporary times?

Today, Kabuki extends its influence beyond the stage to television, film, and anime, remaining an integral part of Japan's rich cultural heritage.