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Kabuki in Kyoto and Minami-za

Episode number: 1

Overview: Discover the many complex connections between kabuki and the historic capital of Kyoto. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores the newly restored Minami-za theater and plays set in Kyoto.

Bestsellers and Kabuki

Episode number: 2

Overview: Discover the historic and modern kabuki plays based on bestsellers! Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores two plays from the Edo period and one based on a modern manga series, Naruto.

Kabuki at Eirakukan

Episode number: 3

Overview: Eirakukan is a historic theater in Hyogo Prefecture. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explains how traditional seating and a small capacity create an extraordinary and intimate atmosphere.

Sumo Wrestlers are the Heroes!

Episode number: 4

Overview: Today's play features two sumo wrestlers as protagonists! Kabuki actor Kataoka Ainosuke talks about sumo in the Edo period and the story of "Futatsu Chocho Kuruwa Nikki."

The Super Thief Ishikawa Goemon

Episode number: 5

Overview: Ishikawa Goemon is a legendary thief from the late 16th century who appears in several kabuki plays. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores what makes this figure so popular.

Kabuki Villains

Episode number: 6

Overview: Every hero needs a good villain, and kabuki has everything from ambitious schemers to vile seducers, and even the odd comic villain. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores the roles' appeal.

Kabuki Costumes

Episode number: 7

Overview: Pattern, color, design, and tradition all play a role in creating kabuki characters. Expert Takahiro Ebisawa joins actor Kataoka Ainosuke to explore the fascinating world of costuming.

Onnagata Romance

Episode number: 8

Overview: Love for family and romance are central themes in the story of many female characters in kabuki. Studio guest and onnagata actor Nakamura Kazutaro reveals techniques he uses on stage.

Osome's Seven Roles

Episode number: 9

Overview: "Osome's Seven Roles" is a tour de force where seven parts, male and female, young and old are played by a single onnagata actor. Our guest Nakamura Kazutaro will tell us all about it.

Tragic Hero Yoshitsune

Episode number: 10

Overview: The historic figure of Minamoto no Yoshitsune has been immortalized in many kabuki plays as a child, a skilled warrior, and a tragic hero. Explore with actor Kataoka Ainosuke.