ANU Kabuki and Embassy of Japan incursion

By Michele Sharp, Head of Languages, and Chris Nguyen, President of ANU Kabuki

Last Friday, in collaboration with the ANU Za Kabuki troupe and the Embassy of Japan, Years 8 – 12 Japanese students and Senior drama students experienced a Japanese Kabuki performance.

Kabuki is a classical Japanese dance-drama known for its stylised performance, elaborate costumes, and unique makeup. Originating in the early 17th century, it was initially performed by female dancers. However, due to government restrictions, male actors have since continued the tradition, portraying both male and female roles. Over the centuries, Kabuki has evolved, blending various elements of drama, dance, and music to depict historical events, moral conflicts, and tales of romance and heroism.

Kabuki is recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage and continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its unique blend of theatrical elements. The plays offer a window into Japanese history, social structures, and artistic expression.

ANU Za Kabuki is a Kabuki troupe based at the Australian National University and is the longest running Kabuki troupe outside of Japan. They perform annually at the ANU and conduct Kabuki workshops around Australia. The play Shibaraku, one of the renowned "18 great plays" of Kabuki, was performed at Radford, offering a unique glimpse into this fascinating cultural tradition.

Prior to the performance the students heard from Mr Teppei Sato from the Embassy of Japan about pathways for students studying Japanese, and were able to take photos with a Japanese backdrop. The students also had an opportunity to engage with the Kabuki actors and their props. The swords, Taiko drum, and Kimono were popular, but the students were also interested in Kabuki techniques and the distinctive makeup the performers wore.

We would like to thank the Embassy of Japan staff, Mr Sato, Ms Kazuko Sakamoto, and Ms Rio Togashi for taking time out of their busy schedules to meet with our students, and the ANU Za Kabuki troupe for the wonderful performance which provided us an insight into this rich aspect of Japanese culture.