Kabuki theater, also called Kabuki-za is one of the best theaters in Tokyo. In 1603, Kabuki was the name given to a dance form performed by a troop of girls and led by Izumo-no-Okuni in Kyoto. The female performers were banned by the ruler Tokugawa shogun as being eccentric and unorthodox. This role was occupied by the male performers, which became a major part of the Kabuki performance. These male performers were popularly known as Onno-gata. Kabuki just changed its meaning to Ka (meaning song) Bu (meaning dance) and Ki (meaning a skill or technique).
Earlier, Kabuki was the name of dances. But now it comprises both dance and plays mostly written during the 17th and 18th century. So, even at times the Japanese find it difficult to understand this language. Kabuki plays are about 300 in number. In the Kabuki Theater earphones and English programs of the play are available, which are helpful in translating the content to English.
Kabuki performances can be enjoyed all year through leaving the month of August. These plays are of long duration and consist of several acts. The audience can watch just one act of the play from the 4th floor of the Kabuki Theater. This floor has been mainly reserved for those people who have less time in hand and want to leave in the middle of the show without disturbing others. Special tickets are available for sitting on the fourth floor. These tickets are known as Makumi and are sold only in advance, 20 minutes before the
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beginning of an act.
One of the important features of the Kabuki Theater is the revolving stage used during change of a scene in a play and is referred as Mawari-butai. On the stage there are some people in black outfits, who are required to look after the actors and props in a show. These men are called Kuroko and they are considered to be invisible on stage by the audiences. The Japanese music played during the performances is very interesting and musicians move in and out of the stage quite frequently.
Visitors can enjoy Japanese food at the different restaurants that includes Oden, Soba, Sushi and tempura during the intervals. There are food stalls selling sweets, fruit balls, sandwiches and drinks. Visitors can also stroll around the shopping centers where Kabuki goods, gift items, dolls and Kabuki pictures are available.
Kabuki Theater is not only the principal source of entertainment or the Japanese people, but also drawing huge audiences from outside. Tourists can easily locate the theater in Ginza, right opposite to the Toei Asakusa subway line and Higashi Ginza station. By taxi, it takes 10 min to reach the theater from Tokyo station. The Shinzuku station is about 30 minutes from the theater.
Matinee shows are held between 11 AM and 3:45 PM and evening shows between 4:30 PM and 9 PM. The ticket counter is open from 10 Am to 6 PM daily.
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