Kabuki Returns; University of Hawaii Students Revive Traditional Japanese Theater in Gifu Pref. After 130 Years
![](https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240602G0TG0TJ9990733.jpg)
University of Hawaii students and others perform the classic “Benten musume meo no shiranami” at the Aioi-za Theater in Mizunami, Gifu Prefecture, on Sunday.
1:00 JST, June 4, 2024
MIZUNAMI, Gifu — Jikabuki, a folk performing art, which took root among Japanese immigrants to Hawaii in the Meiji era, was performed by University of Hawaii students and others at a local theater in Mizunami, Gifu Prefecture, on Sunday. The roughly 500 spectators applauded the folk performing art at the Aioi-za theater, marking a “homecoming performance” after more than 130 years.
Students dressed in matching kimono and held Japanese umbrellas to perform the classic “Benten musume meo no shiranami” [“Benten the Maiden and the Five Thievest”] in both English and Japanese. During one highlight, when the five thieves appeared on stage, they delivered their lines in flowing Japanese. This drew in great cheers and ohineri wrapped offerings of money from the audience.
“I’ve been practicing for a long time. I’m overwhelmed by the applause,” said Arlo Chiaki Rowe, a 25-year-old third-generation Japanese American who performed the nagauta long epic song.
Immigration from Japan to Hawaii began in 1868. Kabuki took root there and, in 1924, “Chushingura” (“The Faithful”) was performed at the university. Kabuki classes and performances are still held at the university today.
"Culture" POPULAR ARTICLE
-
Night Parade of Dinosaurs in Tokyo; Lifelike Dinosaurs to Stomp Their Way Through Tokyo National Museum
-
Ueshima Museum, A New Center For Contemporary Art, Opens In Tokyo; Displays Works By Present-Day Artists From Japan And Overseas
-
Art Museums in Japan’s Kansai Region Reopen After Renovations; Many Structures Need Work to Keep Up with Modern Times
-
Indispensable Craftsmanship for Producing Traditional Nara Sumi Inksticks; Going from Doughy Soot to Beautiful Ink
-
Bunraku Plays with Animated Backgrounds to Go on U.S. Tour; Featuring 9 Shows in 5 Cities
JN ACCESS RANKING