The Art of Laughter: Kyogen

Lecture & Performance

The acclaimed Ohkura School Kyogen actors Daijiro Zenchiku, Noriyoshi Ohkura, and Shinkai Yoshida will perform the popular and humorous “Busu.”

The performance will be preceded by presentations on the history of Kyogen, an explanation of some of the techniques used, and opportunities for participatory learning. Prepare to laugh, and learn how this ancient performing art form still retains never-fading entertainment charm even today.

“Busu (poison)” is the famous tale of two servants who are given a pail and ordered by their master to "carefully guard it, as it contains a deadly poison, "Busu." However, the two servants end up opening the pail and find out…

Kyogen is comic theater which developed alongside Noh. While Noh is musical and solemn, Kyogen provides comic relief with a focus on clever dialogue. Historically Kyogen and Noh alternated in the same program, but now Kyogen is also performed independently, as will be the case in this event.

This program will be presented in Japanese with English translation.

Date: Sunday, November 10

Time: 3:00 p.m. (Door opens at 2:30)

Venue: Amphitheater, Marvin Center, The George Washington University

The event is free of charge, but space is limited and a ticket is required. Please register from the link below..

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This event is organized by the Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures and the East Asia National Resource Center, The George Washington University, with the support of Noh Society in New York.