The Many Faces of Danjuro IX

February 6 – April 30, 2014

Ichikawa Danjuro IX (1838-1903) was one of the most celebrated actors of his time and was key to preserving and modernizing Kabuki theatre for the 20th century.

The Japan Foundation and the Stuart Jackson Gallery are proud to present an exhibition of original antique woodblock prints depicting many of the faces, or roles, of this pivotal actor.

Ichikawa Danjuro IX was a direct descendant of Ichikawa Danjuro I (1660-1704). Kabuki theatre was still evolving when the young Danjuro I adopted his stage name in 1675 and originated the popular acting style called aragoto. Most actors who inherited this prestigious name were his direct descendants, but it was not a given for the son to succeed the father; the title had to be earned and this line of actors is renowned for its great skills and mastery of the art. Ichikawa Danjuro IX inherited the name in 1874 at a time when Japan was modernizing and Kabuki was competing against a variety of new forms of entertainment. He was one of the biggest stars of the late 19th century, highly skilled in the traditional theatre, yet flexible enough to incorporate innovations to keep Kabuki relevant in a changing world.

“Danjuro, the ninth, was the bridge that spanned the sudden gulf which yawned between the traditional past and the uncertain and changing modern world. He may be regarded as the saviour of Kabuki during a period when it might have suffered shipwreck, had there not been a man of genius at the helm to guide the craft through the troubled waters.”

– Zoe Kincaid, Kabuki: The Popular Stage Of Japan, 1925

Gallery Hours

Monday: 11:30 am – 7:00 pm EXTENDED HOURS
Tuesday: 11:30 am – 4:30 pm
Wednesday: 11:30 am – 4:30 pm
Thursday: 11:30 am – 7:00 pm EXTENDED HOURS
Friday: 11:30 am – 4:30 pm
Saturday openings: Noon – 5:00 pm

Saturday opening dates: February 8 & 22, March 8 & 22, April 12, 26
Closed: Other Saturdays and Sundays, February 17 (Family Day), April 18 – 21 (Easter)