ネイティブが教える英会話のジェムスクール☆Teachers☆

Kabuki theatre is one tradition form of Japanese theatre that dates as far back as the Edo Period. It comprises of very exaggerated movements and actions from the actors that look very unrealistic. The mie o kiru is one of the best examples. It is announced with wooden clappers then followed by the actor freezing in their pose, rolling their head and crossing their eyes to emphasize a moment of tension and then the play's actions continue at normal pace. Another unique aspect to Kabuki theatre that differs from western style is the stage. The stage has a special path that leads from the back of the theatre to on stage that is known as the hanamichi (flower path). Actors will appear on it and address either the actors on stage, the audience or give their final words before departing. It holds a trap door on it which is used to signify a mystical/magical character's appearance. The plays are usually around 3 to 4 hours long and tells only part of the story that is being told so usually prior knowledge is recommend before seeing the play.

That's just some (VERY) brief history. But why am I telling you this? Because last weekend I traveled to Minamiza theatre in Kyoto to see their Naruto Kabuki play. When we first arrived in Japan we were disappointed to find out that while we were in Tokyo the show was running and we had missed the opportunity. But two months ago when I was planning Cami's birthday I saw that it was coming back for another run and it was showing in Kyoto. I bought tickets the night that they went on sale and couldn't wait to see it.

The show was so much fun. They managed to start the play from the beginning of the series when the Kyūbi no Yōko was sealed inside Naruto to the end of the shippuden. All within 4 hours. Of course they left out a lot of stuff but they manged to hit some of the important and memorable points like when Nartuo and Sasuke battled on top of the hospital, the Pain battle and Sasuke vs Itachi. A lot of characters also made an appearance (except for the Huga clan for some reason). The end was the best part, they brought it two pools and filled them with water and even had a freaking waterfall on stage for them to fight in!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-erNqUDdUlI

If you're a theatre geek like me, grew up loving and watching/reading Naruto or just want to experience some traditional Japanese culture (with a modern twist) then I would suggest going to see it (they even had English audio guides on sale)!