2018 Japanese Theatre on Film: “The Thunder God” & “Mt. Tempai” (Special Class Focusing on a Video of the Classic Noh Drama)NEW

After exiling him to Kyushu for a crime he didn’t commit, the evil Shihei has sent an assassin to attack Sugawara, his rival at court. Upon learning of the plot, Sugawara flies into a rage and transforms himself into the god of thunder at the top of Mt. Tempai, spitting plum petals from his mouth and turning them into flames. With its dramatic intrigue and pyrotechnic displays, the “Mt. Tempai” scene has been an audience favorite for centuries. (Synopsis: http://www.kabuki21.com/tempaizan.php). The Noh play tells the story of the vindictive spirit of Sugawara, who returns to the Imperial Palace in order to exact his revenge upon those who betrayed him. (Text: http://faculty.humanities.uci.edu/sbklein/ghosts/articles/Raiden-Torre.htm)

In Japanese with English subtitles. Class is free and open to the public. Feel free to bring snacks. All ages welcome!

If you are curious about why Noh and Bunraku's unique combination of drama, music, movement, and spectacle continues to entertain millions every year, join us!

What is Noh? Click here for a good introduction: http://www.the-noh.com

What is Bunraku? Click here for a good introduction: http://www2.ntj.jac.go.jp/unesco/bunraku/en/

Presented by JETAANC Kabuki Club: http://www.jetaanc.org/kabuki

Co-sponsored by the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC): http://www.jcccnc.org/