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 in Kyoto and Minami-za
Aired 3 April 2019 • 28 min
Discover the many complex connections between kabuki and the historic capital of Kyoto. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores the newly restored Minami-za theater and plays set in Kyoto.
2. Bestsellers and Kabuki
Aired 1 May 2019 • 28 min
Discover the historic and modern kabuki plays based on bestsellers! Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores two plays from the Edo period and one based on a modern manga series, Naruto.
3. Kabuki at Eirakukan
Aired 5 June 2019 • 28 min
Eirakukan is a historic theater in Hyogo Prefecture. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explains how traditional seating and a small capacity create an extraordinary and intimate atmosphere.
4. Sumo Wrestlers are the Heroes!
Aired 3 July 2019 • 28 min
Today's play features two sumo wrestlers as protagonists! Kabuki actor Kataoka Ainosuke talks about sumo in the Edo period and the story of "Futatsu Chocho Kuruwa Nikki."
5. The Super Thief Ishikawa Goemon
Aired 4 September 2019 • 28 min
Ishikawa Goemon is a legendary thief from the late 16th century who appears in several kabuki plays. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores what makes this figure so popular.
6. Kabuki Villains
Aired 2 October 2019 • 28 min
Every hero needs a good villain, and kabuki has everything from ambitious schemers to vile seducers, and even the odd comic villain. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores the roles' appeal.
7. Kabuki Costumes
Aired 6 November 2019 • 28 min
Pattern, color, design, and tradition all play a role in creating kabuki characters. Expert Takahiro Ebisawa joins actor Kataoka Ainosuke to explore the fascinating world of costuming.
8. Onnagata Romance
Aired 8 January 2020 • 28 min
Love for family and romance are central themes in the story of many female characters in kabuki. Studio guest and onnagata actor Nakamura Kazutaro reveals techniques he uses on stage.
9. Osome's Seven Roles
Aired 5 February 2020 • 28 min
"Osome's Seven Roles" is a tour de force where seven parts, male and female, young and old are played by a single onnagata actor. Our guest Nakamura Kazutaro will tell us all about it.
10. Tragic Hero Yoshitsune
Aired 4 March 2020 • 28 min
The historic figure of Minamoto no Yoshitsune has been immortalized in many kabuki plays as a child, a skilled warrior, and a tragic hero. Explore with actor Kataoka Ainosuke.