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六百年の「今」を舞う～狂言師・野村萬斎

Name: 六百年の「今」を舞う～狂言師・野村萬斎
Released: 2013-04-11

2013

Movie

Japanese

Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura is taking on the challenge of various attempts to convey the appeal of Kyogen, a traditional art form with a 600-year history, to the modern age. While carrying the weight of the Nomura family's legacy, which was spun out by his father Mansaku, a living national treasure, and others, he has been lightly expanding his field of activity to appear in films and dramas and stage productions. These various activities are nothing other than the path of Mansai Nomura, a kyogen performer who conveys the appeal of kyogen with its profound expressive power to the present day. Through the figure of Mansai, who is always creating new challenges, this programme introduces the appeal of the "traditional Japanese performing arts" in the "present".

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Director: Yasushi Kamata•Genres: Documentary

Plot Summary

This documentary offers an intimate look into the life and work of Kyogen actor Mansai Nomura, a globally recognized master of traditional Japanese comedic theater. It explores his dedication to preserving and innovating the centuries-old art form, highlighting his performances and his collaborations with contemporary artists. The film delves into the philosophy behind his craft, showcasing how he bridges the gap between ancient traditions and modern artistic expression.

Critical Reception

The documentary was generally well-received by critics for its insightful portrayal of a master artist and its beautiful cinematography. Audiences appreciated the deep dive into the world of Kyogen and Nomura's unique approach to his art. It was praised for its educational value and its ability to convey the essence of a complex traditional performance art.