Join us for a special workshop and learn how to animate the puppets used in bunraku performances with the Bunraku Association, based in Osaka.
Bunraku is an important performing art in Japan and was designated by UNESCO as an example of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2003. A distinctive feature of bunraku is that each puppet is operated by three puppeteers working in perfect coordination, synchronizing puppetry with narration and shamisen music. The art form traces its origins in its present form to the 17th century, when older puppet traditions merged with medieval narrative storytelling to form ningyō jōruri (puppet narratives).
During this workshop, you will enjoy a short talk exploring the history of bunraku by Dr Alan Cummings of SOAS University of London, as well as a live demonstration showcasing how the puppets are operated. Following the demonstration, participants will then experience puppet operation themselves. To reflect bunraku practice, participants work in groups of three to animate a female puppet called Osome and a male puppet called Utanosuke.
This workshop forms part of a wider programme that also includes a talk and a bunraku performance on the same day.
About the Bunraku Association
Bunraku Association (Bunraku Kyōkai) is a foundation dedicated to the preservation, transmission and promotion of bunraku, Japan’s renowned puppet theatre. Established in 1963, the Association became a Public Interest Incorporated Foundation in 2012. Today, it serves as the principal organization representing bunraku performers (including narrators (tayū), shamisen musicians and puppeteers) and is responsible for producing performances and nurturing the next generation of artists.
About the speaker
Dr Alan Cummings is a senior lecturer in Japanese in the School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics at SOAS University of London. His research is on early modern Japanese literature and theatre, particularly kabuki and ningyō jōruri (bunraku). He has published Haiku: Love (2013) and several translations in the Kabuki Plays On Stage series.
Tickets for the event are non-refundable. Please read our Terms and Conditions for Event Tickets before purchasing your ticket.
Please note that filming and photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.
Supported by 2 supporters.
