JAPAN FOUNDATION BRINGS KABUKI TO MANILA

Renowned as one of Japan’s finest traditional arts, kabuki stands as a distinct theater form which continues to evolve and capture a new generation of enthusiasts. In February, Manila will have a rare opportunity to have an intimate look into the UNESCO-proclaimed Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM), with support from the Embassy of Japan, presents, “A Night of Kabuki: Demonstration and Lecture”, a Shochiku Co., Ltd. production, on Thursday, February 7, 2008 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Ayala corner Makati Avenues, Makati City. Show starts at 8:00 PM.

The limited engagement features celebrated Kabuki actors, Kyozo Nakamura and Matanosuke Nakamura, performing the Sagi Musume, one of the most graceful classical dances for onnagata or female characters and the Syakkyo, a heroic dance for the tachiyaku or male characters. The performance will be followed by a lecture tracing the development of the kabuki tradition and the practical stage aesthetics such as applying make-up for kabuki.

Kyozo Nakamura started his professional career as a member of the Nakamura Jakuemon IV family in 1982, under the acting name Nakamura Kyozo which was given by the master. Since then, his professional career flourished through regular monthly performances in Japan’s foremost kabuki-zas or kabuki theaters. He is honored to be an authorized holder of the "Important Intangible Cultural Properties - Kabuki (collective recognition)".

“A Night of Kabuki” is by invitation only. For inquiries, call the Japan Foundation, Manila at telephone numbers 811-6155 to 58 or email: email@jfmo.org.ph.