Yayoi Theatre Movement

“OKUNI” – Mother of Kabuki

Studio 1398: March 1- 10, 8pm; Matinees on March 4, & 5 at 3pm; no show on March 6

Okuni-Kabuki is Yayoi Theatre Movement Society’s new 70 minute production choreographed and performed by artistic director, Yayoi Hirano, that will premiere in March 1 to March 10 2017. Okuni, born in Izumo Japan, a former shrine dancer who started kabuki movement in the 1600’s. Okuni created numerous dramatic and elaborate kabuki (‘avant garde’ or ‘bizarre’) performances that were heavily influenced by western costume and jewellery. Okuni’s dance movements were started as a shrine dancer (Miko-dance) and then she, in her avant-garde style, incorporated forms like Bugaku, Sarugaku (later called Noh-theatre). In this dance form, women played men in various comedic plays that garnered popularity and influenced to rival dance troupes.

View Venue