Kabuki

Kabuki was one of the two prevalent forms of theater in the island nation of Wa.

Description
Kabuki productions tended to be vigorous and exciting performances with elaborate song and dance. It was forbidden for women to participate in the shows; all actors were male.

Kabuki plays tended to be less serious than noh plays, which were the other common theatrical form of Wa. Unlike the epicly long noh performances, a typical kabuki show might only last a couple hours.

Reputation
Some of the nobles of Wa found kabuki shows unbecoming or even obscene, such as daimyo Matasuuri Ieysuna, eldest son of the shogun Matasuuri Nagahide. On the other hand, daimyo Matasuuri Unteki, the shogun's brother, not only enjoyed kabuki but also cast himself in the major roles!

Locations
Large theaters where kabuki shows might be performed included the cities of Uwaji, Semmishi, and Iiso. One of the most famous of noh theaters, the Grand Noh Theater in Aru, also staged kabuki performances.

Notable Kabuki Plays

 * The Wise Carp by famed playwright Mika Zorrui.
 * The Vulgar Maiden, also by Mika Zorrui.