Kabuki — featuring Ebizo Ichikawa XI
Kabuki superstar Ebizo Ichikawa XI returns to Sadler's Wells following his hugely acclaimed performances in 2006. He brings with him both long tradition, as a direct descendant of the 17th century Ichikawa acting dynasty, and a thoroughly modern glamour that has helped win new audiences for this riveting and highly stylised art form.
- **** "A gorgeous piece of traditional popular entertainment from another place and time"
- THE TIMES
- "Chocolate-box beautiful, often shimmeringly colourful and always slightly surreal"
- THE GUARDIAN
- "It's exhilarating to soak up the fantastically rich visual feast that kabuki offers"
- METRO
The programme is taken from the epic play Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura (Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Trees), in which Ebizo – together with over 40 distinguished actors and musicians – gives a virtuosic display of Kabuki stagecraft. He takes on the dual role of Yoshitsune's loyal retainer and the enigmatic fox spirit, performing the dazzling sequence of stage tricks that has made this one of the most popular works in all of Kabuki.
Dating from the early 17th century, Kabuki is a highly stylised performing art that employs flamboyant costumes, elaborate make-up and exaggerated body movements to create a sense of the spectacular. Combining acting, dancing and live traditional music, Kabuki is as rich as its heritage.
Simultaneous translation headsets are included in the ticket price.
- "Eye-poppingly exquisite costumes…beautiful paper-doll show"
- THE TIMES
- **** "An eyeful of gorgeous theatrical spectacle. Kabuki is something you will never forget"
- MAIL ON SUNDAY
- **** "The charms of this Japanese art form can be dangerously addictive"
- SUNDAY TELEGRAPH
Listen to Kabuki expert Ronald Cavaye talk about Kabuki traditions, its history, Ichikawa Ebizo XI and the play Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Trees.
Read a synopsis of Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura »
Produced by Shochiku
Presented in association with Askonas Holt
