Osaka Yamamoto Noh Theater

We met at the Noh Theater in the morning. “Noh is a major form of classical Japanese musical drama that has been performed since the 14th century. Many characters are masked, with men playing male and female roles By tradition, Noh actors and musicians never rehearse performances together….In this way, Noh exemplifies the traditional Japanese aesthetic of transience, called ‘ichi-go, ichi-e’.” (above excerpt from wikepedia)

Michelle

Michelle

On the stage, a pine tree is usually painted as the background wall.  The pine tree has special power and it is believed a deity to repose in the tree.  Commonly the Japanese decorate the pine tree in front of their house.  Performances are dedicated to deities first.  Pine trees represent longevity.  Bamboo trees are  a symbol of youth and is painted on the side wall of the stage.  Both trees symbolize that the young and old can enjoy together on the stage.  There are 3 trees represented.  The 3rd is the Plum tree.  The plum tree is found in the performer. The performance is the blossom and where the plum tree resides.  Flowers and blossoms are an intangible expression and you never see the exact same flower over again.  So each of the performances are one of a kind.  The actor and musicians don’t tune their voice and instruments. The language is usually not understood but the drama can be interpreted by the tone of vocals, music, costume and masks used. Instruments are usually handed down in a family and are around 200-300 years old. There has been no identical performances for about 600 years.  Another interesting note is that the masks used are cherished.  The performers bow to the mask before they put them on because it is believed that each object has a soul. Through appreciation of the past performers that wore the mask they will take care and cherish the object.  Only the main character and side character wear the masks. The kimonos are made of silk and have different colors and patterns that have meaning. The hair pieces are made from horse hair.  So with the tradition of the Noh, a family crest, instruments, masks, costumes are passed down from generation to generation and each performance is unique. Thanks to the Osaka RC and Dojima RC for hosting the Vocation day.

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