TokyoEntertainment

Live Performance entertainment in Tokyo

  1. 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…

    reviewed

  2. 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.

    reviewed

  3. C

    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.

    reviewed