Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Best
Traditional Theatre & Dance
Tokyo, when it was Edo (1600-1868), had a rich theatre culture. Above all, there
was kabuki - captivating, occasionally outrageous and beloved. Ribald
rakugo
(comedic monologue) was another favourite diversion in Edo times, and still draws
audiences today. Other classic forms include
nō
(stylised dance-drama),
gagaku
(music of the imperial court) and
bunraku
(classic puppet theatre).
Kabuki
A day at the theatre is a popular pastime. In Tokyo, kabuki performances are held
at Kabuki-za (
Click here
)
in Ginza. Shows run 25 days a month and ticket sales be-
gin on the 12th of the preceding month. A whole performance lasts several hours.
If you're on a tight schedule you can opt instead for a '
makumi
' ticket
(¥800-2000) for just one act, which usually lasts about an hour. These tickets are
only good for 4th-tier seats.
Rakugo
While kabuki tickets now fetch a handsome price and carry an air of sophistica-
tion,
rakugo
is wonderfully unpretentious. The performer sits on a square cushion
on stage, using only a fan and hand towel as props. A typical show lasts hours and
features more than a dozen performers. A number of famous comedians, including
movie director Kitano Takeshi have studied
rakugo
as part of their development.
Top Tips
›
Purchase kabuki tickets from
http://www.kabuki-bito.jp/eng/top.html
.
›
Get kabuki
makumi
tickets an hour before the show from the counter in front of the
theatre.
