Noh is a traditional form of masked drama that has been performed since the 14th century.
Contemporary drama tends to focus on realism, but Noh is different and is atracting
in a completely different way.
Most Noh performances are presented indoors, but the stages all retain pillars and a roof that reflect the original covered outdoor stages where plays were performed.
Every indoor Noh stage also has a bridge-like walkway with railings, which is used as the metaphorical pathway between this world and the other world.
In some plays, the protagonist is a ghost, who appears on the stage through the pathway.
He expresses his unresolved feelings to his former foe.
Many plays have just two characters. Musical accompaniment is provided only by a flautist, several drummers and a chorus.
Noh actors move in a very distinctive way; wearing white socks, they use short sliding steps.
Noh acting is all about achieving maximum effect with a mask and minimal stylized movement.
Unchanged for centuries, Noh continues to give us a glimpse of the medieval sense of values and beauty as well as Buddhist overtones.
Contemporary drama tends to focus on realism, but Noh is different and is atracting
in a completely different way.
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| Noh Stage (center) and Walkway (left) |
Every indoor Noh stage also has a bridge-like walkway with railings, which is used as the metaphorical pathway between this world and the other world.
In some plays, the protagonist is a ghost, who appears on the stage through the pathway.
He expresses his unresolved feelings to his former foe.
 |
| Noh Actor |
 |
| Mask of Ghost |
Noh acting is all about achieving maximum effect with a mask and minimal stylized movement.
Unchanged for centuries, Noh continues to give us a glimpse of the medieval sense of values and beauty as well as Buddhist overtones.
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