Edo Ito Ayatsuri Ningyo is one of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government-designated Intangible Cultural Properties and is selected as one of Japan's Intangible Fork Cultural Properties that need measures such as making records.
Explanations will be provided by a narrator in Japanese and English as we deliver a world with 380 years of tradition in a format that is easy-to-understand for traditional performing arts beginners. We hope that you will be able to fully enjoy this world through a performance that uses beautiful Onnagata (female) Puppets. We will offer some visitors chance to touch puppets.
1. The explanation of how to handle puppets （Includes a demonstration of trick puppets.）
The Youkiza marionettes have a history of 380 years. We will explain the structure of our puppets, which are the epitome of Edo period knowledge and skills, and demonstrate puppet manipulation. We will also demonstrate how to use special female marionettes and trick puppets. We hope to galvanize your interest in the fascinating world of puppetry.
2. “Tsuri Onna”
Comical and pleasant, this piece is a Tokiwazu style narrative dance based on kyogen farce. A single Lord and his follower try to find good wives. At a shrine, they receive an answer to their prayers. Now what will happen next? One of the highlights of this performance is the differing gestures and movements of two contrastive female types, a noblewoman and a homely woman.
3. “Meibokusendaihagi”
This famous play was written especially for the Youkiza in 1785. Today's scene is the extreme lament of Masaoka, a lady-in-waiting, who out of loyalty to her Lord allowed her own child to be sacrificed. The more than 100-year-old marionette used for her role is one of the oldest at Youkiza. It is a precious heirloom mended and passed down generation after generation.
４. “Date-musume koi no higanoko - hinomiyagura no ba -” (common name「Yaoya-Oshichi / Oshichi」)
Based on an actual incident that occurred in the Edo period, this play is frequently revived even today. On a snowy night in December, to save her lover's life, Oshichi, the greengrocer's daughter beats the fire alarm drum at the risk of being sentenced to death herself. A sad and beautiful tale, perfect for a winter program.
5. Some visitors have chance to touch puppets. (only for the person who bought a ticket)
※Pre-registration is required.
※All programs and performances are subject to change without notice.
