#Japan #Tokyo #Noh Theatre #Takemoto Shikorodayu #Tsuruzawa Kantaro

The Captivating World of Noh: Experience the 'Kumagai Jinya' Performance

An essential event for all art lovers, the performance of 'Kumagai Jinya' is set to take place on March 13, 2024, at the Curian Small Hall located in Oimachi, Tokyo. This unique art form called Su-joruri will be brought to life by the eminent Takemoto Shikorodayu, accompanied by the renowned shamisen player Tsuruzawa Kantaro. The story encapsulates the tragic elements of the Genpei War, particularly focusing on the 'Battle of Ichinotani'. This is a narrative art that elegantly combines the depth of music with the storyteller's vocal expressions, presenting a captivating scene purely through words and sound.

A Journey into History: The Battle of Ichinotani

During the Genpei War, a significant historical conflict in Japan, the 'Battle of Ichinotani' played a critical role. Under the command of Minamoto no Yoritomo, the valiant Minamoto warriors, including the famous Yoshitsune, attacked the Taira clan from unexpected locations, leading to a decisive defeat for the latter. This episode of history serves as the backdrop for this five-part theatrical piece, with a focus on the climactic events surrounding 'Kumagai Jinya', where the character Kumagai Jiro Naozane encounters the nobleman Taira no Atsumori, marking a poignant moment of tragedy.

In this performance, Shikorodayu will portray the emotional turmoil faced by these historical figures, providing a deep, resonating narrative that draws in the audience's imagination. The rich tones and rhythms of the shamisen played by Kantaro will further enhance this experience, creating a truly immersive cultural event.

The Masterful Performers

Takemoto Shikorodayu

Born in Hiroshima in 1949, Shikorodayu has cultivated his craft since joining the ranks of traditional storytellers in 1969. Over the years, he has become one of the few remaining masters of 'Kigatari' (a style of storytelling without puppets), gaining recognition for his powerful voice and deep understanding of the material. His status has only grown since assuming the title in 2020, recognized widely within the community for his contributions to the art form.

In his own words, Shikorodayu emphasizes the importance of presenting a substantial piece of historical narrative that resonates strongly with audiences. He believes 'Kumagai Jinya' carries a weight of artistic expression that, alongside the music, creates a shared experience between the performer and the audience.

Tsuruzawa Kantaro

Tsuruzawa Kantaro, born in 1987 in Nara, has made a name for himself as a leading shamisen player, following in the prestigious footsteps of his grandfather. Since beginning his career in 1999, he has received numerous awards cementing his importance in the performance arts scene, including various prizes acknowledging his talent in the realm of Bunraku and Noh.

For this performance, Kantaro will bring the storyline to life with his unique interpretations and sensitivity to musical storytelling, ensuring that audiences are fully engaged in the unfolding drama.

Event Details

The 'Fifth Su-joruri Conference' dedicated to this remarkable art will be held at the Curian Small Hall in Shinagawa, Tokyo, with the performance starting at 2 PM. Doors will open at 1:15 PM, giving audience members a chance to settle in for a captivating afternoon. Tickets are currently available through the Kanfetti ticket service, with prices set at 5,000 yen for reserved seating.

Join Us

We invite everyone, whether familiar with Noh theatre or new to it, to experience this unique blend of music, storytelling, and cultural history. The performance promises an enriching encounter with the past and a reminder of the beauty that lies within traditional Japanese art forms. Don't miss out on being part of a truly unforgettable experience!