Originated by a legendary female dancer, Izumo no Okuni, at the beginning of the 17th century, Kabuki performances with "eccentric" (kabuku) dance and exaggerated acting were developed among common people in urban Japan throughout the following centuries. Some of the top star Kabuki actors are household names and frequently seen on film and TV in Japan today.
Page created by Mitsutaka Nakamura, May 2018.
Best place to start learning Kabuki, such as fundamental knowledge, history, and popular performances including audiovisual excerpts:
Information from a non-profit organization and theatre such as fundamental knowledge, stage performances, including interviews with performers:
Selected DVD titles available at USC Libraries:
Books available at USC Libraries:
Books available at USC Libraries: