Kabuki Performance in January 2025

Detail

The word “Hatsushibai” refers to the first play of the year, traditionally seen during the New Year season. In Japan, it has long been customary to enjoy a theatrical performance—especially Kabuki—during the New Year holidays.

Kabuki plays were originally long productions performed from morning to night. However, in modern times, it has become common to select and perform only the most popular scenes from these works.

Since its opening in 1966, the National Theatre has been known for its unique approach to Kabuki by staging full-length productions, or "Toshi" performances, where the entire play is presented from beginning to end. By including scenes that are rarely performed today, we offer a fresh perspective on the story and bring out new charms of the work.

For Kabuki performance in January 2025, we will present “Hikosan Gongen Chikai no Sukedachi,” a play first performed in 1790, in its entirety. The story revolves around Rokusuke, a master swordsman who helps the daughter of his assassinated mentor, Osono, seek vengeance. This will be the first "Toshi" performance of the play in Tokyo in 22 years, making it a rare and valuable opportunity.

The play features the tragic death of Rokusuke's master, a dynamic battle between the villain Kyogoku Takumi and Osono (it is rare in Kabuki for a female character to fight with a weapon), a heartwarming scene where the two characters unknowingly meet as engaged partners, and the final unification of Rokusuke and Osono as they join forces in pursuit of justice. These elements are all unique to the full-length format, offering many captivating moments.

Rokusuke, a skilled swordsman with deep filial piety; Osono, a charming woman with the strength to rival men; and Kyogoku Takumi , a nihilistic character driven by his own ambition, all offer distinct and unforgettable performances. Through these roles, you will experience the refined artistry of Kabuki acting at its finest.

Website

Appearance

ONOE Kikugorō ONOE Kikunosuke BANDŌ Hikosaburō NAKAMURA Tokizō NAKAMURA Mantarō ICHIMURA Takematsu ICHIMURA Hikaru BANDŌ Kamesaburō ONOE Ushinosuke ONOE Maholo NAKAMURA Baishi NAKAMURA Tanetarō NAKAMURA Hidenosuke KAMIMURA Kichitarō ICHIMURA Kitsutarō KAMIMURA Kichiya KATAOKA Kamezō KAWARASAKI Gonjūrō ICHIMURA Manjirō NAKAMURA Matagorō BANDŌ Rakuzen and others

Staff

Schedule

2025.1.5. (Sun) 〜2025.1.27. (Mon)

Sales period

Sold from 7 days prior to 2 hours before each shows

Price

1st Grade／2nd Grade

［Price List］
￥14,000／￥10,000
→20% off

Event code

5739

Shops

kabukicho_tower／umeda／Tourist Information NAMBA／TKTS SHIBU HACHI BOX ／shibuya-san／GINZA／asakusa-culture-tic／Shinjuku Tourist Information／FUKUOKA TENJIN

*Due to popular demand, ticket availability may vary per day. We apologize for any inconvenience.