Each performance is a one-time event that brings together a variety of elements that were prepared or practiced separately. Generally, there is only one dress rehearsal (mōshiawase) and often this run-through is not fully costumed. With no director, no conductor, no manager, how are the performances staged effectively? Although the performers specialize in one role––shite, waki, kyōgen, fue, kotsuzumi, ōtsuzumi, taiko––each performer’s art is based on a shared set of conventions. In addition, the patterns and methods of coordinating parts are learned by all. For the more popular plays, the performers know them by heart through repeated off-stage practice from a young age, so theoretically they can perform these plays on request without previous notification. Most programs, however, are decided months in advance, giving the performers time to consider interpretation. The choice of mask and costume define the character visually so their selection is given careful consideration. Staging on the day should run like clockwork. Everything is prepared in advance of the actual performance: laying out the costume elements, building the properties if needed, testing the instruments and heating the drum skins of the ōtsuzumi.
- Costumes
- Costumes
- Demons
- Fans
- Garment types
- Hakama
- Headgear
- Kosode
- Large properties
- Mask types
- Masks
- Men
- Noh mask categories chart
- Okina
- Old men
- Ōsode
- Small properties
- Spaces
- Spirits
- Stage structure
- The nōgakudō
- Use of the stage
- Using costumes
- Using the mask
- Wigs
- Women
Contributor: Monica Bethe