Kabuki is a 400-year-old form of Japanese theatrical dance-drama. It is an artistic tradition characterized by its use of certain theatrical elements. Elaborate masks and costumes, vibrant, exaggerated acting, rhythmic dialogue, and the integration of dance into the performance are all notable features of kabuki.

Prior to the Tokugawa era, the theater had mostly been enjoyed by the Japanese aristocracy. However, once Ieyasu took over the country, Japan’s economy – as well as its socio-political climate – was transformed. Lower classes were finally able to afford former luxuries of the elite, such as the theater. During this time, a Shinto priestess known as Okuni danced along the Gojo Bridge, a popular location for street entertainers. She performed parodies of Buddhist prayers. Her dances were said to give way to kabuki.

Since then, kabuki has gone through many phases and quite an evolution – from being considered greatly taboo by the Japanese government, to being regarded as a cultural treasure. Kabuki is now widely known throughout the world. Currently, Shochiku is the most famous Japanese company producing kabuki performances in Japan.

Although kabuki troupes travel throughout the world, the art form is not well-understood by foreigners. Kabuki has influenced Japanese television and cinema, anime, and other facets of the country’s culture.