Theatre Traditions: Rakugo Sit-Down Theatre

Task 1:

Conventions identified from watching a video (Jugemu in English)

• Sitting down
• Interactive
• Humorous story telling
• Handkerchief and Fan to reproduce gestures of story

Task 2:

Origins of Rakugo (audio)

Basically:
Rakugo developed as a form of entertainment for ordinary citizens as many different kinds of entertainers called "rakugoka" performed the generally humorous monologues. There is only one solo narrator on the stage. Dressed in a traditional kimono, the storyteller has to skillfully portray a scene full of imagination. It is still popular today and the most famous venues are located in Tokyo, Japan.

Task 3:

Mini demonstration of differentiating between characters (video)

Task 4:

Research use of props
Both of these props are used in a variety of ways to tell the story. As a story teller, the rakugo performer helps create the setting for the audience to better use their imagination and enjoy the story. Therefore, rakugo is not only a creative story telling tradition, but also an insight into Japanese language and culture. When the fan is closed it can be the sword of a samurai or a tree. The handkerchief can be a headband to represent an old lady.