The Specificity of the Traditional Theatrical Dance performance in the Japanese Kabuki Theater

Abstract

The article examines specific features of the dancing performance sësagoto of the Japanese traditional Kabuki theater. Sësagoto was formed under the influence of the earlier Japanese theaters’ traditions. Kabuki choreography adopted dancing elements from the Shinto action Kagura, the Japanese traditional dance Nihon buë and the ritual theater nogaku. Kabuki actors copied as well puppet’s movements and gestures from the puppet show Bunraku. Kabuki developed its own aesthetics by synthesis and adaptation of other theaters’ traditions. The specific feature of the kabuki dance is the representation of the sensual world of characters.