1. Japanese Nogaku (noh) Theatre

2. Origins Theoreticals Founders
Several theories explain the origin of noh
The most plausible suggests that it was an attempt to for lower class artists to curry favor with the newly established Samurai ruling class
It is undisputed that a father son team originated the form
Zeami
Motomasa (son)
Zeami’s father was himself a revolutionary figure who paved the way for Zeami’s invention of noh theatre

3. Transmission A mostly genealogical tradition
Father trains son
No discrete techniques are practiced
No scales, elocution, or physical arts
A process of imitation and memorization
Training begins in childhood
Emphasis on discipline and control
Artform is learned through practice of small sections of performance pieces

4. Typical Cast Waki (supporting actor) Shite (main actor)
Kyogen (comedic actor)
Flutists
Shoulder drummers
Hip drummers
Stick drummers
Chorus
Casts are trained in schools specific to discipline
1500 active cast members
500 active performers

5. Unique Elements Noh plays have no director There are no rehearsals
Actors have a deep understanding of each play and their part
There are no rehearsals
The element of chance is essential
Chance creates tension
Each performance is meant to be ephemeral
Single characters dominate, but are often not characters so much as emotions in human form
Language is often not grammatically correct
Streams of imagery and allusions are used

6. Typical Program Okina (ceremonial opening) 5 noh plays
4 kyogen comedies
Duration: 10 hours

7. Chorus Made up of 8 to 10 shite actors Do not represent characters
Shift from 3rd person narration to the voice of the protagonist
Do not wear masks

8. Musicians Enter first, leave last
Are a critical part of the performance
Posture and garments are heavily regulated by convention
Musical accompaniment is very precise

9. Masks Used to convey a character’s
Age
Gender
Social status
Nature/demeanor
Static and typical, but imbued with emotion by the actions of the actors
Shite characters are masked unless they represent a normal, human individual
Wakis never wear masks, but they keep their facial features static and emotionless

10. Mask Types ko-omote For young female characters
Takes on a cheerful or sad expression as it is carefully raised or lowered

11. Mask Types Otobide Fierce deity mask
Exaggerated expression comes to life most vividly when the head is moved quickly from left to right

12. Mask Types
kishin
Demon mask

13. Fans
Fans are ubiquitous and are used to indicate the nature of a character

14. Props
Stage props are simple frameworks that suggest the object

15. Costumes
Costumes contain many symbolic elements provide the audience with clues and discrete information

16. Costume Detail