Anori Puppet Theater 2026

About this event

Originating in the Azuchi-Momoyama period and passed down for over 400 years, the traditional performing art "Anori Puppet Theater" (Anori Ningyo Shibai) will be performed from Saturday, September 12 to Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the Anori Puppet Theater Stage set up on the grounds of Anori Shrine in Anori, Ago-cho, Shima City. This puppetry is a three-puppeteer style performed by local volunteers from Anori during the festival of Anori Shrine, and is designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. Its origin is said to trace back to a hand dance performed by villagers to entertain Yoshitaka Kuki during the Korean campaign. Characterized by simple, bold, and rustic emotional expressions, it is a folk performing art also tied to prayers for a bountiful catch in the new year. In the 2026 performance, following the dedicatory Sanbaso performance at Anori Shrine, groups including the Tokai Junior High School Local Performing Arts Club, the Anori Junior High School Bunraku Club Alumni, and the Anori Puppet Theater Preservation Society will each present elaborate performances. In particular, this time features a special stage renovation commemorative project: a joint performance of "Ehon Taikoki: Amagasaki no Dan" by alumni, which is a major highlight. The Sanbaso begins at 5:00 PM, and the puppet theater performance starts at 6:30 PM. Dance performances are also scheduled during intermissions.

Venue

Anori Shrine

844 Anori, Ago-cho, Shima-shi, Mie 517-0507