How to See Japanese Bunraku Puppetry

Bunraku is the traditional puppetry art of Japan. Most puppeteers manipulate puppets through the use of strings, but Bunraku puppets and controlled by puppeteers that are visible to the audience. Japanese Bunraku puppetry also takes all day to perform. The puppetry stories are intricate and laden with drama. These are not puppet shows made to entertain small children, but are a true art form that can be appreciated by adults of all ages.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Find a Bunraku puppet theater to attend or a traveling Bunraku show. Many university campuses feature traveling Bunraku shows. The University of Missouri has a permanent Bunraku program that puts on shows. Attend the National Bunraku Theater in Osaka, Japan.

2. Ask about the story the Bunraku puppet show details. The stories are often from classical Japanese mythology. Get the background of the particular story and read up before attending the show.

3. Listen closely to Jojuri or chanter and the shamisen, a traditional Japanese instrument, player. Enjoy the music as it is meant to create mood that supports the action. The Jojuri conveys the emotion of the puppet show through her voice.

4. Watch the intricate movements of the puppets. Before you know it you'll forget that the puppeteers are visible. Recognize the main puppeteer as his head is uncovered. The lower ranking puppeteers cover their heads in hoods.

5. Look at the puppets as each face is intricately carved and conveys deep emotion. The costumes are also exact miniatures of a variety of real kimonos.