Day Trip Bus Tour: Backstage Tour of the National Theatre and a Viewing of Kabuki!
Day Trip Bus Tour: Backstage Tour of the National Theatre and a Viewing of Kabuki!
The "Backstage Tour of the National Theatre and a Viewing of Kabuki” was held over five dates: January 17, 18, 19, 26, and 27. This bus tour offered both a backstage tour of the National Theatre, which is currently closed for the reconstruction project, and a viewing of the Kabuki performance at the New National Theatre—bestowing an opportunity to thoroughly experience Kabuki in a day.
During the backstage tour, the participants first watched a video introducing the history and allure of Kabuki, followed by a guided tour of the dressing rooms and backstage areas led by theatre staff. To ensure that international participants could enjoy the experience, the tour was conducted in both Japanese and English.
Watching an epic Kabuki performance video on the Small Theatre stage
Stage tour at the Large Theatre
Exploring the dressing rooms that are usually off-limits to the public
The participants had the chance to try on Kabuki costumes and experience the sound effects. For the costume experience, they wore actual costumes worn by Kabuki actors and enjoyed by taking photos with their families and friends. During the sound effects experience, various Kabuki sound effects were demonstrated, and the live sounds performed by the sound staff elicited awe.
Kabuki costume experience
Kabuki sound effects experience
Kurogo-chan appeared at the exit to farewell the participants!
More events to bring you closer to traditional performing arts will be planned at the National Theatre. We look forward to welcoming everyone!
*This tour was presented as the first project in a series under a partnership agreement between the Japan Arts Council and H.I.S. Co.,Ltd.