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National Noh Theatre
国立能楽堂
National Noh Theatre.JPG
National Noh Theatre
Address 4-18-1 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku
Tokyo
Japan
Coordinates 35°40′49″N 139°42′29.3″E / 35.68028°N 139.708139°E / 35.68028; 139.708139
Capacity 591
Construction
Opened 1983
Architect Hiroshi Ōe
Website
http://www.ntj.jac.go.jp/nou.html

The National Noh Theatre (which is Kokuritsu Nōgaku Dō in Japanese) is a special place in Tokyo, Japan. It opened in September 1983. This theatre is where people can watch traditional Japanese plays called Noh and Kyōgen.

The main hall, called the auditorium, can hold 591 people. Besides the stage for performances, the theatre also has other useful areas. There is a rehearsal stage where actors practice. There is also an exhibition area to learn more about Noh. You can find a lecture room for talks and a library with books and information.

Noh-stage
The Noh stage, made of special wood, with a painted pine tree backdrop.

What is Noh Theatre?

Noh is a very old type of Japanese musical drama. It has been performed for hundreds of years. Noh plays often tell stories using slow movements, beautiful costumes, and masks. The actors use special singing and dancing.

Kyōgen plays are often performed with Noh. Kyōgen is a type of traditional Japanese comedy. These plays are usually shorter and funnier than Noh plays. They often make people laugh with their simple stories and funny characters.

A Place for Performers

The National Noh Theatre is important for keeping these old art forms alive. It helps new actors learn and perform. Since 2007, the theatre has also regularly featured performances by female actors. This helps more people share their talents in Noh and Kyōgen.

See also

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