Kyogen （狂言）
 Performance/Workshop

Date:
Tuesday, August 25, 8:00pm-9:30pm

Venue:
JACCC (James Irvine Japanese Garden)
244 S San Pedro St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
 

Admission: $35

Advance ticket purchase required through JACCC

Kyogen Performer Manzo Nomura IX will give a special one-night-only performance and workshop in Los Angeles. Audiences will have the rare chance to see this classical comic form of Japanese theatre performed live in the intimate, serene environment of a Japanese zen garden. Then later, during the workshop portion of the evening, Manzo Nomura IX will explain some of the fundamental aspects of Kyogen and will even teach the audience how to produce the unique sound of laughter that is particular to Kyogen.

What is Kyogen?
Kyogen is a form of traditional Japanese comedic theatre which balances the more solemn form of Japanese theatre called Noh, and was originally developed to provide comic relief between heavier, more serious Noh acts. Kyogen represents a wellspring for traditional Japanese performing arts and, as such, has had tremendous influence on kabuki and other arts that developed later. Kyogen plays are almost all comedic spoken dramas, and are easy to understand. Performers wear traditional Japanese costumes without any make-up, using very unique vocalizations and particular methods of stepping around and across the stage.

Manzo Nomura IX - From childhood, he received rigorous training from both his grandfather (Manzo Nomura VI) and his father (Man Nomura), both of whom are recognized Living National Treasures. At the age of 4, Manzo Nomura IX appeared on stage in his debut role as a child monkey in the play Utsubo-zaru. After that, he performed numerous roles in plays such as Nasunoyoichigatari (1985),  Sanbasou (1988), Tsurikitsune (1990), Kanaoka (1994), Hanago (1996). Manzo Nomura IX leads Yorozu Kyogen, a branch of the Manzo family school, and has held performances not only in Japan but in America, Canada, Spain, Korea, and other countries as well. One can see a dignified style in Manzo Nomura IX’s acting which he has inherited from his father, and which makes him a precious and rare performer in the modern age.

This event is co-organized by:
Japanese American Cultural Community Center
Consulate-General of Japan in Los Angeles