ENTER NOH - Masked Stage Art of Japan - Japan's Masked Performing Art [With English Commentary]

Noh is a Japanese performing art that originated in the 14th century and has been passed down continuously to the present day. Enjoy this comprehensive art form that engages all five senses, designated by UNESCO. A special performance with English commentary will be held in Kyoto on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

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Kyoto Kanze Hall

Noh is a classical Japanese performing art that originated in the 14th century and has been passed down through the generations to the present day. Not only has it had a profound influence on Japanese history, it is also highly regarded worldwide. In 2001, UNESCO designated it a "Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity." This fall, we will be holding performances with English commentary on the following dates: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 In addition to regular viewings, we will also be offering special programs with limited seating. Please see the link for details.

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What is Noh? Let's take a look at its main characteristics!

【01 Visual and Musical Art】 Noh is a form of “total theatre” that combines visual, musical, and literary elements, offering many ways to appreciate its artistry. Performers wear elegant masks and costumes as they chant or dance to music on stage. The simple yet sophisticated stage presentation of noh continues to inspire artists to this day.

【02 Classical Literature】 Much of the noh repertory draws from ancient and medieval literary works, such as The Tale of Genji, The Tale of the Heike, and The Tales of Ise. Through its lyrical texts that portray these canonical stories, noh offers deep insights into Japanese culture. Many plays are also set in Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan.

【03 Universal Stories】 The stories of noh unfold through themes shared with theatrical masterpieces across times and cultures, including compassion, sorrow, regret, anger, and joy. These universal themes continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.

UNESCO has designated Noh as an "Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity."

The performances will be fully translated into English and will be held on Tuesday, October 21st and Tuesday, November 11th, 2025, so please come and join us.

Please check the URL for details.

http://kyoto-kanze.jp/lp/20250714show_meeting/?utm_source=matcha&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=matcha

Written by

Kyoto Kanze Hall

Kyoto

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