Season 4

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Episodes

Each episode has its own detail page.

Episode 128 min2017-04-05

The Star Dramatists of Kabuki History

Explore 400 years of kabuki history through plays of different eras. Actor Nakamura Kazutaro introduces famous writers from each period.

Episode 228 min2017-05-03

Imoseyama Onna Teikin (Husband and Wife Mountains)

Explore the Japanese "Romeo and Juliet", Imoseyama Onna Teikin. Actor Nakamura Kazutaro introduces scenes from this deeply tragic romance.

Episode 328 min2017-06-07

Onnagata Props

Explore some of the props used by onnagata, kabuki actors who play female roles. A props expert joins actor Nakamura Kazutaro to explain how these items are made and how they're used in performance.

Episode 428 min2017-07-05

Tachiyaku Male Roles

Kabuki actor Kataoka Ainosuke is in the studio with Nakamura Kazutaro and explores some of the male tachiyaku roles of kabuki, including tragic heroes and battle scenes.

Episode 528 min2017-09-06

Powerful Aragoto Heroes

The strong, manly aragoto style of kabuki acting and plays is our focus this week. Join kabuki actor Kataoka Ainosuke and our guide Nakamura Kazutaro as they examine its history and try out some aragoto moves in the studio!

Episode 628 min2017-10-04

A Visit to the Kabukiza

Kabukiza is the only theater dedicated to showing kabuki all year round. Explore unique stage machinery based on centuries-old ideas, the backstage, roof garden, and shop.

Episode 728 min2017-11-01

Kabuki Stage Sets

Kabuki actor Nakamura Kazutaro explores the unique nature of kabuki stage sets, stage machinery, how these items are made, and the work done by stagehands during performances.

Episode 828 min2018-01-03

The Peerless Chikamatsu Monzaemon

The universal plays of Chikamatsu Monzaemon were written 300 years ago yet are still used in movies and TV today. Kabuki actor Nakamura Kazutaro explores his genius.

Episode 928 min2018-02-07

Kabuki & Ukiyo-e

What's the link between ukiyo-e art and kabuki? Many famous prints are of kabuki actors and were sold to fans. They're key documentation of staging and costumes. Explore this fascinating relationship.

Episode 1028 min2018-03-07

Japan's Historic Kabuki Theaters

Several old theater buildings around Japan give a feeling of what it was like to see kabuki in the Edo period. Experience these performances from up close.

Season Cast

Featured cast for this season.

Cast

Haruka Christine

Herself

Nakamura Kazutaro

Himself

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