What we do

Rakugo & Bamboo lanterns Noh“kanawa”

  • Organization : Yoyogi Kachokai
  • Section : None
  • Type of Grant Program : Single

Outline

Two forms of traditional culture can be enjoyed at once in this one-day-only event: Noh, a Japanese performing art which has continued uninterrupted for seven centuries; and rakugo, since olden times a popular entertainment among the common people. For night lighting, bamboo that grows wild around the temple is cut and made into lanterns, which are placed around the stage and garden to create a subtle, mysterious world.
During intermission, kikusui (Japanese sake with chrysanthemum petals) will be served in the reception hall, which is a Cultural Asset of Setagaya-ku.
In addition, a Noh actor will give a mini-lecture prior to the Noh performance, explaining specific highlights of the play.
People who tend to think of Noh as difficult to approach or who have never seen Noh before will have an opportunity to watch a Noh performance in a lighthearted way.

Profile

Rakugo: Shunputei Ichinosuke
Just 11 years after starting his training, in an extraordinary occurrence, Shunputei Ichinosuke was selected over 21 other rakugo artists for promotion to the position of top performer, Shin-uchi. Rakugo fans are captivated by his unique storytelling style.


Noh: Jiichi Asami
Jiichi Asami is a shite-kata (principal role) Noh actor of the Kanze School. He is recognized as a holder of Important Intangible Cultural Properties.
Asami studied with his father, Masataka Asami, and the late Tetsunojo Kanze VIII. He made his stage debut at the age of three in the shimai (Noh dance) “Oimatsu” (The Old Pine Tree). He is active in overseas performances, new and revived Noh works, films and so on. Asami assists with Yoyogi Kachokai, which is directed by his father, and periodically holds performances at Yoyogi Nohbutai.

Contact

Rika Asami
Yoyogi Kachokai
4-36-14 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 151-0053
Tel:+81-(0)3-3370-2757
Fax:+81-(0)3-3370-2757
E-mail:info@yoyoginoubutai.com

Venues

Myojyuji, Hondo (Setagaya City, Tokyo)