Gekidan Byakko-tai

An avant-garde theater company founded in 1968, known for experimental stage works influenced by Terayama Shuji. Starting from underground theater, it developed a unique fusion of visual and physical expression. The company has significantly influenced Japan's contemporary theater scene with its distinctive artistic approach.

Japanese lecture performance art based on historical novels and tales of valor. Unlike Rakugo, performers sit at a wooden desk using a wooden fan to beat rhythm, delivering dramatic narratives in loud, expressive voices. Developed from the Edo period, it gained fame for 'topical kodan' addressing contemporary historical events like the Meiji Restoration.

An all-female musical theater troupe founded in 1914. Distinguished by its otokoyaku (male-role) and musumeyaku (female-role) system, it stages spectacular musicals and revues. With its unique star system and passionate fan culture, it occupies a singular position in Japanese entertainment history.

A traditional Japanese storytelling art where a single performer sits on a cushion using only a fan and towel to enact stories. Established in the Edo period, it features the technique of portraying multiple characters through masterful narration. English rakugo and young performers are recently attracting new audiences.

A festival dance originating in Kochi Prefecture, characterized by dancing with naruko (wooden clappers). The Kochi Yosakoi Festival, started in 1954, spread nationwide due to its flexibility allowing free choreography and costumes, evolving uniquely in each region including the 'YOSAKOI Soran Festival.'

An all-female revue founded in 1914. Its gorgeous musicals with female actors playing male roles are uniquely Japanese entertainment, drawing 2.5 million annually for over 100 years.

Japan's largest commercial theatre company. Known for Japanese-language productions of 'The Lion King' and 'Cats,' drawing 3 million annually. They established musical theatre culture in Japan.