Japan 7 Days S2013E05 - Children's Kabuki Theater Exposes New Generation to Traditional Drama

With ornate clothing, elaborate makeup, and dramatic gestures, kabuki actors continue to captivate audiences around the world, 400 years after the art form was born. The longevity of any traditional art depends on the willingness of young people to take part in it, as performers or audience members or both. The Shintomiza Children's Kabuki Theater aims to make sure this form of drama keeps on going. Located near the Kabukiza theatre in Tokyo's Ginza area, it involves about 20 elementary school children. Shopkeepers, makeup artists, and various companies support the performances. Fumiko Morokawa, a teacher of Japanese dance, founded the troupe. She grew up listening her grandmother sing kabuki songs. Now, she's bringing a similar experience to children of today.

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