The programme appraises the rustic puppet theatre
of Ningyo Joruri Bunraku as a theatrical form, examines its legacy
over the past three centuries, and looks at how this can be handed
down to future generations. It is only through performances embodying
the true traditions of this ancient art — designated by UNESCO
as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of
Humanity — that it is possible to stir the hearts of contemporary
audiences. The research in this programme is an academic and concrete
attempt to address the question of how this can be achieved. Rather
than relying entirely on philological research, the programme enjoys
the cooperation of prominent bunraku performers, and it is hoped that
by trying various methods to actually restore and perform forgotten
pieces, we will be able to play a leading role in widening the horizons
of the Ningyo Joruri Bunraku tradition and truly invigorate the performance
of bunraku.
Faculty Profile
<Faculty>
Name |
Qualifications |
Mikiko Uchiyama |
Professor of Arts (Theatre and Film), Graduate
School of Literature, Waseda University |
|