Higashishirakawa Village Local Kabuki Performance (50th Revival Anniversary Performance)

About this event

A special performance will be held in Higashishirakawa Village, Gifu Prefecture, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the revival of "Ji-Kabuki," a traditional performing art continuing since the Edo period. Surrounded by the village's rich nature, this small village of about 2,000 people offers an important opportunity to pass on Ji-Kabuki—long cherished as entertainment for villagers—to the next generation. Supported by around 300 members, the Higashishirakawa Village Kabuki Preservation Society involves a wide range of generations from elementary school students to people in their 80s as actors and backstage crew, eagerly practicing for their regular performance held every September. For this 50th-anniversary commemorative performance, the goal is to maximize the appeal of Ji-Kabuki by repairing aging stage equipment and props, as well as staging a larger number of plays. The performance highlights not only authentic Ji-Kabuki staging but also the passionate acting displayed by performers ranging from elementary school students to seniors. In addition, full-scale stage sets crafted by local carpenters and younger members, an exhibition of stage curtains from historic theater playhouses, and stalls serving local village specialties are scheduled, making it a special event celebrated across the whole village. Kabuki actor Ukon Onoe has been appointed as an honorary advisor, and his support for the performance is anticipated. This commemorative performance serves as a new starting point, aiming for Higashishirakawa Village's Ji-Kabuki to remain a symbol that deepens local bonds and becomes a cultural hub visited by many fans from outside the village.

Venue

Hananoki Kaikan

606 Kando, Higashishirakawa-mura, Kamo-gun, Gifu 509-1302