Question 1

Banzuke (Cast Ranking Board)とは？

Accepted Answer

A printed cast listing for a performance, with actors' names arranged by rank. Originally a single-sheet playbill.

Question 2

Kakegoe (Shouts of Encouragement)とは？

Accepted Answer

Shouts from the audience calling out actors' house names like 'Naritaya!' or 'Otowaya!' at dramatic moments such as mie poses. Also called omuko.

Question 3

Kojo (Stage Address)とは？

Accepted Answer

A formal address where actors speak directly to the audience rather than in character. Most commonly seen at name succession ceremonies (shumei). The ritualized greeting begins with 'Tozai, tozai!' and ends with a humble request for the audience's continued patronage.

Question 4

Makuai (Intermission)とは？

Accepted Answer

The intermission between acts, when audience members eat meals and browse souvenir shops.

Question 5

Omuko (Gallery Shouts)とは？

Accepted Answer

Originally refers to the back rows of the third floor. Now refers to the practice of shouting actors' house names (yago) like 'Naritaya!' during dramatic poses.

Question 6

Sujigaki (Program/Playbill)とは？

Accepted Answer

A performance program (pamphlet) containing synopses and cast information.

Theatergoing — Kabuki Glossary

📖 Theatergoing 6 terms