Abstract:

This volume includes two performances. DATTAN (The Fire Ritual) is a dance piece first performed in 1967. It is a recreation of the annual Shuni-e ritual that takes place at the great Todaiji Temple in Nara. This ritual was performed on behalf of the state to prevent natural disasters, epidemics and rebellions and to ensure bountiful harvests and peace across the Nation. This performance features Nakamura Shoroku II. NININ WANKYU is one of the oldest dances in the Kabuki repertoire. It recounts the story of Wanya Kyubei, the son of a rich merchant who fell in love with the courtesan Matsuyama. He squanders such huge amounts of money on his visits to the courtesan that his parents finally place him under house arrest. He escapes and wanders the streets penniless, eventually drowning in the Aji River. This performance features Nakamura Shoroku II, Nakamura Tomijuro V, and Nakamura Jakuemon IV. || Both programs were originally recorded in Tokyo's famed Kabuki-za Theater--DATTAN in 1970 and NININ WANKYU in 2000--and broadcast by NHK, the Japanese Broadcast Company. An optional English translation and commentary by Kabuki scholars Paul M. Griffith, Ronald Cavaye and Valerie Durham follows the stories and provides additional information to help international audiences appreciation of Kabuki performance, history, music and dance.