Noh is a highly stylized song and dance performance perfected in the mid-14th century in Japan. Kyogen originated around the same time. Actors perform the drama wearing masks. The Noh drama centers around themes such as spirituality, love and revenge. In contrast, Kyogen offers comic relief and satirical humor. Kyogen is performed between the acts of Noh performances.
The Noh stage is a simple stage with almost no decorations. However, the costumes are very elaborate. The color and pattern combinations of fabrics have been refined over the centuries into a work of art.
Most Noh masks are completely expressionless, displaying no emotions. Emotions of the character are displayed by the actor's motions, allowing him the freedom to display delicate emotions. The demon is an exception – it shows very evil expression.
Masks are carved from cypress and then painted. Many masks are masterpieces, and have been passed down from generation to generation, over hundreds of years. While artisans attempted to produce duplicate masks, each mask has slight differences. Most of the masterpiece masks show cracks, stains, warping, and discolorations. On stage, the blemishes become indistinguishable and the beauty of the masterpieces can be seen.
The main actor (Shite) is a grown man. He plays many roles including elderly men, young women, elderly women, gods, ghosts and animals. The Shite switches roles by changing his mask. The supporting actor (Waki) often does not wear a mask nor make up. Furthermore, he maintains an expressionless face. Rather, emotions are displayed through body language and voice. Fewer masks are used in Kyogen than in Noh.
A festive dance called Kagura takes place in the courtyard of a local shrine or on a moving stage with wheels. The moving stage is rolled through the village streets by the towns people. The actors wear comical masks and dance to rhythmical, repetitious, melodies played by flutes and drums.
All fans are made from paper and bamboo. Designs are hand-painted on both front and back.
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To see a larger image of each piece, click on the image (~100K).