Over the last few months, or the last few weeks, really, I have come to hear of several US-based troupes devoted to traditional Japanese theatrical forms – or at least to adapting these forms into modern pieces.
Two in particular that come to mind are the San Francisco-based Theatre of Yugen, and the Los Angeles-based Arigato Kai, which I just learned of today.
I know that New York doesn’t have quite the same reputation as LA or San Fran for being specifically strong in East Asian culture, because we’re too busy being strong in representation of *every* culture, but I wonder if there are any troupes like these based on the East Coast? Not that I would necessarily be up and joining them, after being in *one* performance of anything ever, that I would suddenly start considering myself an actor, but, just to be involved, to make some connections, even just at the very least to be aware of their performances and events (such as the kabuki movement workshop Arigato Kai held the beginning of this month in LA) and hopefully maybe attend some. If/when I ever settle down somewhere and establish myself, I’d love to start building connections with a troupe like these.
But, anyway, if you’re on the West Coast, and are interested in Japanese theatre as I am, then lucky you, here are two troupes putting on what look to be great shows.
Theatre of Yugen does excellent work, mostly centered on Noh and Kyogen. Although their original works are developed only every two years or so, it is always superior stuff!