The basic structural units of a nō play, shōdan are defined by their poetic, rhythmic, melodic, and kinetic elements. Each shōdan has a name, like shidai, ageuta, kuri, sashi, and kuse. The main types can be categorized as chanted texts (utai-goto) or instrumental passages (hayashi-goto). Several shōdan combine to form a scene (dan) and several scenes comprise an act (ba).
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