San Antonio College Library

This program, directed by Takao Toshioka, features demonstrations of Kyogen acting techniques. Theater director and teacher at Ryukoku University in Kyoto Jonah Salz narrates and explains the stylized codified patterns that characterize Kyogen -- a Japanese comedic form of theater that dates back over 600 years.

"Fifteen of the most celebrated plays of the Noh theatre repertory are here given in their entirety, and five more are presented in synopsis. These translations are embedded in a critical discussion of the Noh theatre, its history and place in the court life of Japan, a description of the stage on which it is played, its music, costumes, and masks, and the dance, which usually is the emotional high point in the performance."--

Theater has a long history in Japan, ranging from traditional Kabuki to today's avant-garde performing arts. This program explores the cultural debate within Japan regarding traditional forms of theater and more contemporary variations, including the adaptation of Western texts such as Chekhov's The Cherry Orchard and street theater. Interviews with many of Japan's leading playwrights such as Tadeshi Suzuki and some of the country's most talented...