Kabuki Talk Series 2025

Join us for a special three-part talk series in conjunction with Cinema Kabuki 2025 Toronto, where we will dive deep into different aspects of Kabuki Theatre. Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or just curious to learn more, these sessions promise to offer fascinating insights.


Kabuki talk I: Introduction to Kabuki Theatre

Monday, February 10, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (ET) (Doors Open at 5:30 PM)

In-Person Talk Event & Slide Presentation | Admission Free | RSVP Required
Presented in English by Toshi Aoyagi, Program Officer at the Japan Foundation, Toronto

As an art form, Kabuki theatre has a specific timeline and birth story. The unique, original charm of Kabuki theatre can be clarified when you know how Kabuki was created and developed during its history. Why do men perform female roles in Kabuki? To be explained.


Kabuki Talk II: Kabuki’s Golden Couple, Nizaemon & Tamasaburo

Saturday, February 15, 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM (ET) (Doors Open at 2:00 PM)

In-Person Talk Event & Slide Presentation | Admission Free | RSVP Required
Presented in English by Toshi Aoyagi, Program Officer at the Japan Foundation, Toronto

One of the most magnificent theatrical phenomena after World War II worldwide must be this golden couple, Nizaemon and Tamasaburo, in Japanese Kabuki Theatre. Talk about chemistry on stage! When Nizaemon and Tamasaburo appear on stage together, their charm and attraction are multiplied, resonating with each other, and filling the theatre space like waves, fume, or lights. In that sense, the golden couple is aromatic, radiant, and sensual.


Kabuki Talk III: The Sacred Shishi, Lion Dance

Wednesday, February 19, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (ET) (Doors Open at 5:30 PM)

In-Person Talk Event & Slide Presentation | Admission Free | RSVP Required
Presented in English by Toshi Aoyagi, Program Officer at the Japan Foundation, Toronto

A number of Kabuki pieces called Shishi-mono form one of the major parts of the dance repertoire. A woman, such as a princess or courtesan, is transformed by the sacred animal, and becomes a heroic, ferocious figure. But sometimes male figures dominate the pieces, focusing attention on father-son relationships. Here is the excitement and diversity of Lion Dances.