#Japan #Tokyo #Documentary #Kabuki #Kataoka Nizaemon

Encore Screening of "Kataoka Nizaemon: The Thirteenth" in Tokyo

This July, kabuki enthusiasts in Tokyo have the unique opportunity to experience the celebrated documentary film, "Kataoka Nizaemon: The Thirteenth", through a series of encore screenings at PolePole Higashi-Nakano. The film, directed by Sumiko Hada, originally premiered 17 years ago and spans an impressive 10 hours and 46 minutes, divided into six volumes.

After an enthusiastic response to the initial screenings in May and June 2026, which saw an astonishing 80% occupancy rate and rapid sell-out crowds, the decision to hold encore screenings was fueled by overwhelming demand from audiences. Many viewers expressed their desire for a second chance to catch the film they missed, leading to additional showings from July 11 to 16 as well as a complete screening of all six volumes on July 17.

The documentary chronicles the life of Kataoka Nizaemon, a prominent kabuki actor renowned for his deep commitment to his craft, particularly during the late Showa period into the Heisei era. The film captures him from ages 84 to 90, showcasing not only his performances but also enlightening discussions and rehearsal footage, providing an immersive insight into the world of kabuki.

Screening Schedule

The following is the detailed screening timetable at PolePole Higashi-Nakano:

• - July 11 (Saturday): Volume 1 - "Wakaayu no Maki" (Young Ayu)
• - July 12 (Sunday): Volume 2 - "Hito to Gei no Maki (Part 1)"
• - July 13 (Monday): Volume 3 - "Hito to Gei no Maki (Part 2)"
• - July 14 (Tuesday): Volume 4 - "Hito to Gei no Maki (Part 3)"
• - July 15 (Wednesday): Volume 5 - "Magoemon no Maki"
• - July 16 (Thursday): Volume 6 - "Tosen no Maki"
• - July 17 (Friday): All Six Volumes Together

- 9:50 AM: Volume 1 - "Wakaayu no Maki"
- 11:50 AM: Volume 2 - "Hito to Gei no Maki (Part 1)"
- 1:40 PM: Volume 3 - "Hito to Gei no Maki (Part 2)"
- 4:10 PM: Volume 4 - "Hito to Gei no Maki (Part 3)"
- 6:10 PM: Volume 5 - "Magoemon no Maki"
- 7:50 PM: Volume 6 - "Tosen no Maki"

All screenings commence at 7:00 PM daily, and the finale on July 17 will conclude around 10:30 PM. Tickets are priced at 2,000 yen per screening, with discounted rates available for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased at the theater or online, beginning three days before each screening. Notably, for the all-day event on July 17, tickets will go on sale seven days in advance.

Venue Information

The screenings will take place at PolePole Higashi-Nakano, located at 4-4-1 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo. For more details, you can visit their website at pole2.co.jp or call at 03-3371-0088.

About the Film

Produced by Jiyuu Kobo and directed by Sumiko Hada, this film stands as a testament to the artistry of kabuki theater. It chronicles Nizaemon's dedication to his craft, illustrating not only his performances in renowned plays like "Kujira no Taku", "Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami", and "Aijinjō Daitōben" but also his philosophy and discipline as an artist. This documentary is a rare treasure; its lengthy runtime and lack of commercial releases have led it to be cherished as a legendary work in the realm of Japanese cinema.

Those who have engaged with kabuki through other mediums may find this film particularly enlightening, and it offers a unique chance to dive deeper into this captivating artistic world.

Don’t miss the chance to witness this extraordinary documentary, as it not only highlights the significance of kabuki in Japan but also memorializes the talent and legacy of an iconic figure in the arts.