This is the main character or “the doer” in a Noh play.

This is the female character (played by a male actor) in a Kabuki play.

This is the oldest Japanese theatre tradition, which is performed on an asymmetrical stage.

A Chinese philosophy that influenced Noh theatre, centered around the idea that release from earthy attachment is necessary for a soul to rest.

In Noh theatre, this hand prop can be a sword, a cooking ladle, the sun, the moon, the wind, the rain… anything except what it actually is.

This is a Japanese theatre tradition presented in a combination of extremely exaggerated song, dance, and skill.

This is an actual bridge running right through the audience to the main stage of a Kabuki theatre.

This is an ancient Japanese religion that influenced Noh theatre, which emphasizes the human spirit’s connection to nature.

These are assistants who sit at the back of the Noh stage, clearly visible to spectators, who handle props, straighten costumes or prompt actors.

The intention of Noh theatre is to generate this experience of harmony among all beings seen and unseen.

These are special white socks worn by Noh actors to highlight their walk, which enable actors to easily glide across the stage.

In Kabuki theatre, this is a moment of high drama where an actor flaunts their style, creating a picture of extreme emotion.

This is a short comic play meant to be an interlude between the much more serious and contemplative Noh plays.