Its origins date back to the early 17th century, when it rapidly grew in popularity. Though viewed with suspicion by the authorities, it remained at the centre of Japanese cultural life.
Origins
Initially, it was performed by both sexes, causing unease about public morals in official circles. The association between female actors and prostitution led to a ruling in 1625 that all parts be played by males.
Key characteristics of Kabuki include operatic plotlines, masks, and heavy makeup. Shouting at other actors is also encouraged.
A great onnagata (male actor playing a female role) will transcend the conventions and carry you away to the floating world. Louis Levene
Modern versions
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| Kotohira kabuki theatre |
The Kabuki version of Bayreuth is the town of Kotohira, in Shikoku province. Local geisha funded the building of a kabuki theatre there in 1835, and fans pay £150 for tickets to the annual festival every spring.
Leading actors like Sakata Tojuro are major cultural figures. There is even a Kabuki-on-Demand streaming service.
Kemp and Bowie
In the late 1960s, Kabuki also became fashionable in avant-garde theatrical circles in the West, particularly in the UK.
David Bowie was an early enthusiast, learning a form while working with mime artist, Lindsey Kemp. Bowie later borrowed heavily from the kabuki tradition in the creation of Ziggy Stardust.
Politics
More recently, Kabuki has entered general English as a synonym for theatrical. In the US, it is often used to describe politicians suspected of acting insincerely to please their supporters and/or attract maximum media attention.