35: Japan’s Theatre Performers

Exercise 1.Look at the picture and talk about it.

Exercise 2. Read the Introduction.

Widely acclaimed not only for their rich tapestry of myths, beliefs and cultural heritage, the Japanese also take pride in their world-renowned theatre and art. The most famous of all being the geisha whose imagery has become universally symbolic of old Japanese culture. A myriad of films based on geisha, the proliferation of Noh masks and imprints of Kabuki stand testimony to the fact that Japan has contributed immensely to the realm of theatre.

Exercise 3. Answer the questions below.

1. What are geishas? What is the meaning behind the word? How do you distinguish between geiko and maiko?

2. How do you feel about the Western perception that geisha sell themselves for entertainment?

3. What does it entail for a woman to become a full-fledged geisha?

4. Can geishas enjoy the same level of normalcy as women outside the okiya?

5. Why does Kabuki employ female impersonators and Takarazuka male impersonators?

6. Have traditional forms of Japanese theatre undergone revival?

7. Are there modern versions of the old Kabuki and Noh?