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Noh
Noh, the oldest form of Japanese drama, originated in the 14th century (about 600 years ago) as a form of entertainment, and it was also used at religious festivals. It was further developed under the protection of shoguns. Noh became most popular at the time of Kannami and his son Zeami. They each wrote beautiful plays in medieval times. Some of their plays include "Aoi no Uye," "Hagoromo," and "Nonomiya."
Noh actors express their emotions and characters through the use of masks carved out of wood. There are six main categories of Noh masks, they are; holy men, gods and demons, old men, spirits, men, and women.
Because the Noh actors wear these masks, they must use the four pillars at each of the corners of the sacred, wooden stage to guide them since they can't see very well. Noh is sometimes known as "The Art of Walking" because of the cautious, precise way that the actors walk during their performances. The actors enter and exit the stage from a long, bridge-like passageway coming from stage right. Another thing that is interesting about a Noh Drama is that nothing separates the audience from the actors (i.e. a curtain).
Noh costumes are worn in layers of garments in different patterns and colors. These costumes are very thick. No shoes are worn on the stage, as they are not in several Japanese traditions.
Many props are also used in Noh theater to express meaning, the most common prop is the folding fan (of course).
In Noh, the performers chant, sing, and speak their lines. There are four percussionists upstage of the actors, and a chorus of chanters as well.
Noh Costumes
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