“Shibahama-tei,” a new yose experience where authentic rakugo intersects with a variety of performing arts, will kick off on Saturday, April 4, and is scheduled to be held monthly thereafter.
The venue is “MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives,” located near the setting of the classic rakugo masterpiece “Shibahama.”
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At the heart of “Shibahama-tei” is an authentic performance by established, mid-career rakugo artists known for their solid skills.
Performer Kagami Senjirō began his apprenticeship under his father, Kagami Sensaburō, in 1993 and changed his name to his current one in 2006. While carrying on the tradition of Taishin-gaku performing arts, he is active in yose venues and various performances, and also serves as vice president of the Taishin-gaku Performing Arts Association. Kagami Sensei began his apprenticeship under the same master in 2014 and won the Silver Prize at the National Theater of Japan’s “Hanagata Performing Arts Grand Prix.”
Additionally, Kokontei Kikunosuke began his apprenticeship under Kokontei Enkiku in 1991 and was promoted to the rank of shin’uchi in 2003. He is highly regarded for his refined, crisp delivery and his expressive ability to carefully portray the emotions of his characters. Focusing primarily on classical rakugo, he performs a wide range of stories—from heartwarming tales like “Shibahama” to comedic pieces—and is active throughout the country.
In this production, alongside authentic rakugo, the show combines cross-genre performances—including music, manzai comedy, magic, acrobatics, and voice impersonations—to create a “new yose” where the charm of traditional yose meets contemporary sensibilities.
Additionally, a roundtable discussion among the performers will be held after each performance. This offers a deeper insight into the background of the performances, the creative techniques used, and the appeal of the art form. Multilingual support is also provided, making it an attractive option for first-time rakugo audiences and international visitors alike, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience with confidence.
Why not experience a memorable moment that transcends national and cultural boundaries at “Shibahama-tei,” where the humor and human warmth of traditional Japanese performing arts intersect with modern sensibilities?
