About this season
Kabuki is a world-class theater with a history of over 400 years, but is also exciting entertainment. What is the secret of its enduring attraction? Haruka Christine, Nakamura Kazutaro, and Ichikawa Somegoro guide us through the world of kabuki.
Episodes (10)
1. Kabuki Costume Concepts
Aired 6 April 2016 • 28 min
Explore the dazzling world of kabuki costumes! An expert joins the studio to explain the intricate details of some of kabuki's most famous clothes. Join us for the first in a new season of KABUKI KOOL.
2. Discover Kabuki Based on Noh and Kyogen
Aired 4 May 2016 • 28 min
Explore three kabuki plays that are based on noh and kyogen originals. Nakamura Kazutaro guides us through the originals to see how and why kabuki changed, or kept, certain dramatic elements.
3. Seductive Women
Aired 1 June 2016 • 28 min
This time on "KABUKI KOOL" actor Nakamura Kazutaro guides us through two stories that hinge on a woman's seduction of the hero. Join us in an exploration of their very different motives!
4. Kuromisu Music in Kabuki
Aired 6 July 2016 • 28 min
This time on "KABUKI KOOL" explore the music which heightens on-stage action. Musician Kineya Mitaro and his group demonstrate the extraordinary skills that prompt laughter and tears from audiences.
5. The Beauty of Dance: Onnagata
Aired 7 September 2016 • 28 min
This time on KABUKI KOOL, explore the intricate beauty of onnagata dancing with acclaimed actor Nakamura Kazutaro.
6. Kamigata Kyogen Set in Merchant Families
Aired 5 October 2016 • 28 min
This time on KABUKI KOOL, explore the emotional drama of Kamigata plays with actor Nakamura Kazutaro. This style of kabuki developed in the Kansai region of Japan.
7. Sounds of Kabuki
Aired 9 November 2016 • 28 min
This time on KABUKI KOOL, discover the role of narimono, the kabuki flute and percussion ensemble. Background music, sound effects, and atmospheric tension, actor Nakamura Kazutaro explains the many sounds of kabuki.
8. Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura
Aired 7 December 2016 • 28 min
This time on KABUKI KOOL, explore a historic masterpiece of kabuki theater. Actor Nakamura Kazutaro explains the appeal of "Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Trees."
9. Tachimawari Fight Scenes
Aired 1 February 2017 • 28 min
This time on KABUKI KOOL, explore the intricate tachimawari or fight scenes, of kabuki plays. Actor Nakamura Kazutaro is joined by a tateshi, or action choreographer.
10. Challenges of Modern Kabuki
Aired 1 March 2017 • 28 min
This time on KABUKI KOOL, we move away from the classics to look at two modern kabuki plays. Actor Nakamura Kazutaro explains the challenges of performing new works.