InsideJapan News Network

A leading performer in the art of Kabuki theatre was recognised for his contribution to the industry after he was awarded the 2011 Kyoto Prize in Arts and Philosophy.

During the 27th annual prizes from Japan's Inamori Foundation, Tamasaburo Bando V took the title which highlighted his devotion to the performing art that has seen him act in onnagata, or female roles.

This speciality led him to becoming a tate oyama, or leading actor of female parts, in career which began to take off when he was just 19-years-old.

At that time he was cast as Princess Shiranui in Chinsetsu Yumiharizuki, otherwise known as The Moon Like a Drawn Bow.

One title he has worked on is Gekashitsu (The Operating Room), which he helped to write and direct.

The star also directed Yearning in 1993 – a movie that was subsequently entered into the 43rd Berlin International Film Festival.

Born in Shin'ichi Morita in 1950, the 61-year-old is sometimes referred to as Yamatoya.

Posted by Mark Smith