Kabuki star embraces a new name and a new eraーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS
Kabuki is a Japanese performing art combining music, dance and drama. The actor stage names or mioki are passed down through their families. Ono Kikunoske recently inherited the esteemed Mioki Kikugoro, the eighth generation actor to do so. The name Kikugoro originated in the Edeto period and has been passed down for about 300 years. Each generation has featured distinguished actors who were Kabuki leaders. We followed the latest Kikugoro as he sets out to shape the future of this traditional art. [Music] The name succession performance began in May. [Music] What seemed to be a beautiful young woman is actually a thief in disguise played by Kiku Goro. Pretending to shop for a wedding, he shoplifts fabric. Once the thief’s true identity is exposed, he reveals his rough, brash nature. [Applause] [Music] This role showcases Kikugoro’s true talent, his mastery of both male and female roles. Kikugoro actively incorporates modern culture into Kabuki with the aim of making the art accessible to broader audiences. This effort includes new Kabuki plays. He has created ambitious works inspired by popular anime, Shakespeare and stories from India. At his name succession ceremony, he surprised the audience by collaborating with a famous rapper. The essence of changes with the times. What kind of kikugoro I will become is something I hope to shape together with the times ahead. Kikuguro also believes that passing on the Kabuki tradition to the next generation is a crucial mission. [Music] He has handed down his stage name Kikunoske which he held for 29 years to his 11year-old son. In the name succession performance, Kikunoske takes on a female role, Onagata, for the first time. Kikugoro is passionately guiding him through the nuances of the performance. Living national treasure Bondo Thomas, who is taking part as well, is also guiding the young artist. The piece the three will perform is considered one of the most challenging in the Onagata dance repertoire. Kikugoroto believes that performing alongside Thomas Sabbero, the foremost master of Onagata will be an invaluable experience for his son. Words alone cannot convey everything. That’s why I believe the most important thing is to share the stage. If I can help in any way, I’m glad to do so. Hamas’s posision in every detail is amazing. I was truly impressed. Then came opening day of the performance. In the dressing room, a tense atmosphere hung in the air. The two had shifted from parent and child to fellow actors. They go over the choreography until the very last moment before the [Music] show. performed the grand dance piece Kanoko Musame doji. They portray the complex emotions of a young woman in love by changing their ornate [Music] costumes. Their perfectly synchronized and elegant performance stirs the audience while preserving tradition. Kikugo also strives to expand Kabuki’s [Music] possibilities. The name Kikugoro is a great and weighty title for my family. This is the beginning. I believe that maintaining an orthodox style while creating works suited to our era is essential for Kabuki to [Music] [Applause] [Music] thrive. Their onagata dance was really something. Young Kikunoske is surely a star in the making. The performance by Kikugoro and Kikunoske will continue at the Kabuka Theater in Ginsza through June. English subtitle services are available so overseas visitors can enjoy the show as well. And that’s all for me.
Onoe Kikugoro has inherited a prestigious kabuki name with a legacy of about 300 years. While honoring tradition, he continues to explore new possibilities for Kabuki. #japan #art #culture
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