Zeami Motokiyo

The origins of the noh theatre is coming from playwrights/actors Kannami Kiyotsugu (1333-1384) and his son Zeami Motokiyo (1363-1443) performed for Ashikaga Yoshimitsu (1358-1408), who was the ruler of all Japan at that time. Ashikaga Yoshimitsu was so amazed by their performance that he gave the highest social status to both actors. Zeami wrote many plays which are still performed today and he was called the father of noh theatre.

Noh theatre was developed in 14th century in Japan and was influenced by Chinese performing arts such as sarugaku, which includes music, dancing and sometime juggling. Also traditional Japanese dance called dengaku (rustic music) which was used during rice planting and harvesting time. The word "Noh "means Buddhist and it refers to a mental state of mind between performers and the audience. The play is usually performed by male actors wearing masks. The movements of actors are very slow and deliberated. The gorgeous costumes makes an incredible impression on the audience. The main character always appears from darkness and slowly walks to the center of the stage accompanied by flute and drums. The stage itself is made from the cypress-wood and has the painting of a pine tree on a back of stage, which indicates the world of a spirit.

This picture shows us the traditional stage of noh theatre. The members of the choir are seating in the back of the stage and the main character is performing right in the center. The costumes have at least 5 layers of fabric and exquisitely embroidered.