Nozaki Village

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Nozaki Village

Bunraku: September 1780, Osaka Kabuki: May 1785, Osaka

A domestic-affairs drama in two acts. The story was based on a joint suicide that took place in Osaka. The Osome-Himatsu story created its own genre that won wide popularity from street troubadours. “Shinpan” signifies this is a new version incorporating the original story, while adding the subplot of a household succession battle and the “Nozaki Village” scene. Hisamatsu was from a samurai household, but his loss of a treasured sword led to the disbandment of his household. He seeks to regain the sword to revive his household name. His plans go awry when he falls in love with the daughter of the merchant in the shop where he works, ultimately causing tragedy for both. “Nozaki Village” is the only scene from the show that remains in the Kabuki repertory. Details about the origins of this production are debated.

●main graphic panoramic stage　August 2013　Kabukiza Theatre

●publication date　December 2015