The Kabuki-za Theater is Tokyo’s Ginza district is presenting a series of gala farewell performances over the next year to honor the historic theater before it is torn down in 2010 and to make way for a new highrise structure that is scheduled to be completed in time for the 2013 season.  The Kabuki-za Theatre originally opened in 1889 and was rebuilt on three separate occasions after being destroyed by fire.  Today it retains an ornate facade in the style of its 1924 reincarnation.

Kabuki is a 400 year old traditional Japanese art form where men play all of the major roles while wearing elaborate makeup and costumes.  The performers utilize traditional acting techniques skills passed down through many generations of Kabuki actors.

“The first time I saw Kabuki was many years ago at the Kabuki-za Theater in Ginza and I will not soon forget the experience.  The actors brightly colored traditional costumes and the exaggerated movement of the mie, where the lead actor dramatically moves his head from side to side, crosses his eyes and juts his face out towards the audience before freezing in position for a few seconds.  The mie indicates a climactic moment during a Kabuki play and usually results in hearty applause from the audience.”

The Dramatic Kabuki Actor

Kabuki can be an all day affair or you can just stop by or one act.  April Grand Kabuki runs from April 2 -26, 2009 but shows will continue through April 2010 at  this historic theater in Tokyo.  Be sure the check the websites below for details of future shows if you are unable to attend one of the April Grand Kabuki performances.

Kakuki-za Gala Farewell Performances:

Location: Kabuki-za Theater, near Higashi-Ginza Station on the Hibiya or Toei Asakusa lines (map).
Dates: April Grand Kabuki (April  2 – 26, 2009)
Times: Matinee starts at 11AM and the Evening performance starts at 4:30PM (both shows are different – see program).
Ticket Prices: From Y800 for Makumi (single act – limited number of tickets sold on the day of the performances) to Y160,00 for a first floor box seat  If you purchase a Makumi ticket and want to stay longer, you may upgrade at the box office. (ticket information & facility map).
Earphones(highly recommended): Rental Cost is Y400 for Makumi or Y650 for other tickets plus a Y1,000 deposit (detail).

Image Credit:   Flickr, kabuki theater, Personal Collection

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