Live Performance entertainment in Japan
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A
Kabuki-Za (Kabuki Theatre)
Performances and times vary from month to month at Kabuki-za so check with the TIC (Tourist Information Center; ) or the theatre for programme information. Be sure to rent a headset for blow-by-blow explanations in English, and pick up a bentō downstairs. A full kabuki performance comprises three or four acts (usually from different plays) over an afternoon or an evening (typically 11:00 to 15:30 or 16:30 to 21:00), with long intervals between the acts.
If four-plus hours sounds too long, you can purchase last-minute tickets for a single act, although seats are only on the highest balcony. Since some acts tend to be more popular than others, inquire ahead as to which to…
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Matsumoto Performing Arts Centre
Architect Itō Toyō has broken all the rules with this 2004 building, and we love it. Its undulating exterior walls are punctuated with frosted glass cut-outs that look like rocks - very impressive at night. Among other performances, the Matsumoto Performing Arts Centre is the key venue for the Saito-Kinen festival. Heading east on Eki-mae-dōri from the city centre, it's just off the map on the right.
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B
Takarazuka Gekijō
While not really traditional theatre, the all-female Takarazuka Gekijō revue, going back to 1914, exposes Tokyo’s knack for complexity. These musicals are in Japanese, but English synopses are available. A mostly female audience swoons over actresses in drag. If you love camp, this is for you.
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C
Kyoto Concert Hall
The Kyoto Concert Hall holds regular performances of classical music and dance (traditional and contemporary). Ticket prices average between ¥3000 and ¥5000. Check with the TIC for current schedules.
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D
Crocodile
The Crocodile, which hosts all sorts of music acts on any given week, has live English stand-up, sketch and improv comedy on the last Friday of every month, sponsored by Tokyo Comedy Store.
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E
Juttoku
Juttoku is located in an atmospheric old sakagura (sake warehouse). It plays host to a variety of shows – check Kansai Time Out to see what’s on.
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F
Ishikawa Prefectural Nō Theatre
Nōtheatre is alive and well in Kanazawa, and performances are held once a week during summer at Ishikawa Prefectural Nō Theatre.
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