#Japan #Tokyo #Kuwata Takashi #Dojoji #Noh Theater

Kuwata Takashi's Noh Festival: A 15th Anniversary Celebration

Kuwata Takashi, a prominent Noh master from the Kanze school, is set to celebrate the 15th anniversary of his self-produced festival, "Kuwata Takashi Noh Matsuri," by revisiting the challenging piece "Dojoji." This highly anticipated event will take place on June 29, 2025, at the Kanze Noh Theatre, located in Ginza, Tokyo.

The tickets for this special event are currently available for purchase through Kanfetti, managed by Long Run Planning Co., Ltd. in Shinjuku, Tokyo. You can find more details and buy tickets on their official website.

"Dojoji" is often considered a rite of passage for Noh performers. Takashi first took on this dramatic piece in 2009, after rigorous training under his master, Kanze Yoshiyuki. Now, on the 15th anniversary of his festival, Takashi is set to embrace this challenging role once more, showcasing his dedication and growth as an artist.

This specific performance of "Dojoji" promises to be a unique experience, gracing the audience with many dramatic and thrilling moments. One of the highlights of the show is the climactic moment involving a heavy bell that weighs approximately 80 kg. Performers must perfectly time their movements to leap into the bell just as it falls—a combination of danger and breathtaking choreography that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

In this upcoming rendition, Kuwata will perform "Dojoji" with special instructions referred to as "aka atama" (red head). This includes a significant costume change for the lead character, who will don a red headpiece and bright red pants, a style originating from the first generation of the Kanze family, Kanze Kiyoshi. This technique has been closely guarded and passed down through generations, and Takashi is eager to present his interpretation proudly, embodying the essence of the Kanze family's artistry.

Performance Details

Programme

• - Kuwata Takashi Noh Matsuri: Dojoji Aka Atama

- _"Kagura Daiko"_ by Kanze Yoshimasa
- _"Sotoba Komachi"_ by Kanze Yoshiyuki
- _Kyogen: "Hi no Sake"_ featuring Nomura Mansaku as the leading role
- Noh: _"Dojoji Aka Atama"_ with Takashi Kuwata in the lead role, Fukuwaki Kazuyoshi as the monk from Dojoji, and Nomura Hoshin and Nomura Yuki as supporting roles.

Synopsis of 'Dojoji'

In the play, a white performer appears to commemorate the bell at Dojoji Temple, which has fallen into disrepair. As the dancer passionately performs, she is drawn toward the bell, ultimately jumping into it, causing it to crash down with a thunderous noise. The temple's monk recalls a tragic tale of a girl who transformed into a snake to pursue a monk she loved, leading to an ill-fated fate of death. As the play unfolds, the audience witnesses the haunting transformation and the tale's haunting resolution.

About Kuwata Takashi

Kuwata Takashi, born in 1971, studied under Kanze Yoshiyuki and is a member of the Noh Theater Association. He has performed in many traditional Noh plays, including "Dojoji," "Mochizuki," and "Ataka," establishing his own venue, Fukagawa Noh Theatre, in downtown Tokyo. He is active in promoting Noh theater and has led the "Noh Matsuri" since 2010, alongside managing a Noh performance tutorial program.

Performance Information

• - Event Date: June 29, 2025
• - Venue: Kanze Noh Theatre (6-10-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo)

Cast

• - Kuwata Takashi
• - Kanze Yoshiyuki
• - Kanze Yoshimasa
• - Nomura Mansaku
• - Nomura Hoshin
• - Nomura Yuki

Schedule

• - 14:00 - Shimai performance
• - 14:15 - Kyogen performance
• - 14:35 - Intermission
• - 14:50 - Noh performance
• - 16:40 - End of the show

(Note: Doors will open at 13:00)

Ticket Prices

• - Reserved Seats:

- SS Seat: 12,000 yen
- S Seat: 10,000 yen
- A Seat: 9,000 yen

• - General Admission:

- General Seat: 7,000 yen
- Student Seat: 4,000 yen (for those under 26; ID required)
(Taxes included)
Note: Children under school age may not attend.

Ticket Purchase

For ticket purchase and member benefits, please visit the Kanfetti website.