On Sunday, September 13, we once again held our annual “Kabuki WOW” program, with 21 junior high school students who had signed up taking part.

This year’s performance was “Ryu Hakuro no Kiraboshi (Lupin the Third) – The Beautiful Emerald Castle,” staged at Minamiza Theatre. It is the second installment of the “Lupin Kabuki” series, following the highly acclaimed production in 2023.

Before the performance, Mr. Oda of Shochiku Co., Ltd. gave a special presentation exclusively for Ritsumeikan Uji students. After learning how to enjoy kabuki and what to look out for in the day’s performance, the students explored the area around Minamiza. They visited sites including the statue of Izumo no Okuni, who is regarded as the founder of kabuki, and traces of the former “Kitaza” theatre that once stood across from Minamiza. They also viewed the “yagura” turret preserved on the present building, a symbol indicating that the theatre was officially authorized by the Edo shogunate, and learned about the history of kabuki, which developed along Kyoto’s Shijo riverbank.

Then, at last, it was time to enter Minamiza. The theatre was completely sold out that day! As the performance began with the familiar theme music before a packed audience, the students were immediately drawn into the world of the story.

Throughout the performance, elements of anime were creatively incorporated into expressions unique to kabuki. The students were captivated by the combination of traditional kabuki and contemporary theatrical techniques, and the time seemed to fly by.

There was also a wonderful surprise during the grand finale! Mr. Ainosuke Kataoka, who played Lupin, called out the name “Ritsumeikan Uji Junior High School” to the audience. The unexpected shout-out delighted the students and brought a perfect end to a thoroughly enjoyable day filled with smiles.

After the performance, the excited students enthusiastically shared their impressions, saying, “It was so much fun!” and “That staging was amazing!”

By learning about the history and traditions of kabuki before experiencing a live performance, the students were able to discover not only its long history, but also its innovative side as an art form that continues to evolve with the times. We hope this Kabuki WOW experience will inspire the students to feel a closer connection to Japan’s traditional culture.