New to Taishu Engeki? Here’s What You Can Expect
Welcome to the famous Mokubakan Theatre.
Taishu Engeki is a very unique Japanese theatrical experience, enjoyed by local Japanese citizens, now being shared to people visiting Japan from all over the world.
Whether you are visiting the famous Shinohara Mokubakan Theatre, or reading our website from around the world, we humbly thank you for your interest in our culture.
Taishu Engeki is unlike anything you may have seen before. It is not “simply a dance show”, but a theatrical Japanese performance which changes everyday, and may involve:
- A mix of modern and/or traditional dance;
- Theatrical modelling, acting and/or posing;
- Japanese instruments;
- Japanese traditional dance accessories, such as Katana, Fans, or Umbrellas;
- Extravagant, authentic Japanese kimonos;
- Modern, or western-inspired clothing.
- …and many more unexpected themes
Not only is every single show different, but each Taishu Engeki performance group specializes in different themes. One month’s group may have performers specializing in instruments, and the next month’s group may have famous actors, and the next month’s group may have child performers. Performers within each group will also have different specializations. Each performance will have a wildly different style, pace, and outfit. You never know what to expect!
What you can expect is to watch several short performances from various members of the Taishu Engeki group, and the show will finish with a choreographed performance involving many, if not all members of the group. The final performance each day can vary from comedy, to traditional, to modern; it can vary from fast-paced dance to slow-paced theatrical performance. Regardless of the style of performance, if you keep an open mind, you can enjoy this local, grassroots Japanese theatrical experience.
During the show, the performers may come into the audience and walk through the theatre, allowing for intimate, up-close experiences with members of the audience. You may often see audience members give various gifts during, or after an individual performance. In Western countries, you can compare this to “tipping”, but it has a different cultural meaning as part of Taishu Engeki. You may see performers receive cash, envelopes, flower necklaces/lei, or large gifts such as accessories. International guests are also welcome to participate in this gift-giving exchange, if you see an outstanding performance.
This is a unique opportunity to experience Japanese theatre culture up-close, like a local Japanese resident. We hope you can enjoy the show.
