NOH
In our performance of Rashomon we will use three aspects
of the Noh theater: the shirasu, the shirasu-bashigo,
and the ichi, ni, and san-no-matsu. The shirasu
is the small strip of space filled with white gravel between the
stage and the audience. The step placed across the shirasu
is called the shirasu-bashigo. The three pine trees planted
in the shirasu are called the ichi (first), ni
(second), and sa-no-matsu (third pine). |
Noh theater started during Japan's Muromachi period (1333-1568)
by samurai warriors. Noh blends narrative songs, shimai style dances,
and music from the four hayashikata (instruments) to create
artful five hour performances. The main characters wear intricate
masks and costumes while the only stage decoration is a tree painted
on the back wall. Movement on stage is generally slow and flowing.
