EAST 114 - Japan on Stage & Screen: An Introduction to Kabuki, Noh, and Butoh

Semester Offered: First Semester, First Module
Full Course
Credits: 2 credits
Attribute: 2HU, CD

This class introduces Japan’s most dynamic performing arts, including noh, kabuki, bunraku, and buto. We explore cultural and historical contexts of Japanese theater from 8th century to today, performance styles, staging, movement and music, costumes, and audiences. Students will attend a live performance of Noh and screenings of kabuki, Bunraku puppet theater, avant-garde buto, and related oral story telling forms on screen. Readings include scripts and sources texts from Tales of Genji, Heike, samurai stories, folk legends, and historical events.

Enrollment Limit: 50
Instructor: A. Sherif