Takarazuka Revue
Overview
Founded in 1913, Takarazuka was the first troupe to bring the revue to Japan. Part of the novelty of Takarazuka is that all the male parts are played by women, based on the original model of Kabuki before women were banned from the theatre in Japan. The productions are extravagant affairs - think Broadway or Moulin Rouge - of mostly Western-style musicals, with the odd Japanese folktale or manga (Japanese comic).
Witnessing a Takarazuka performance is a truly unique experience, with enough feather boas and sparkles to please even the most reluctant theatre goer.
Whatever you do, make sure you wait for the finale - a Rockette-style kickline and the performers parading down an enormous stage-wide staircase will make you think you're in Vegas!
Founded in 1913, Takarazuka was the first troupe to bring the revue to Japan. Part of the novelty of Takarazuka is that all the male parts are played by women, based on the original model of Kabuki before women were banned from the theatre in Japan. The productions are extravagant affairs - think Broadway or Moulin Rouge - of mostly Western-style musicals, with the odd Japanese folktale or manga (Japanese comic).
Witnessing a Takarazuka performance is a truly unique experience, with enough feather boas and sparkles to please even the most reluctant theatre goer.
Whatever you do, make sure you wait for the finale - a Rockette-style kickline and the performers parading down an enormous stage-wide staircase will make you think you're in Vegas!
When:
Takarazuka performances run throughout the year, with 5 different troupes (Flower, Star, Moon, Snow and Cosmo) performing in different shows.
Where:
Takarazuka performances run throughout the year, with 5 different troupes (Flower, Star, Moon, Snow and Cosmo) performing in different shows.
Where:
There are two Takarazuka Theatres. The original Takarazuka Grand Theatre in Takarazuka, Hyogo is close to Kyoto and Osaka. There is a second Takarazuka Theatre in Tokyo.
The revue also tours regularily perfroming in theatres throughout Japan, so experiencing a Takarazuka show can be added to almost any itinerary.