Season 5

This time Kataoka Ainosuke takes his first turn as our host. Ainosuke is a renowned kabuki actor. He'll be our guide to the attractions of kabuki looking at some of the roles he's played.

Explore the fascinating conventions and traditions of kabuki. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explains the origins and meanings of kabuki's unique make-up, its onnagata techniques, and stage machinery.

Explore the different types of romantic hero who appear in kabuki. From sweet, comic charmers to brooding bad boys, actor Kataoka Ainosuke explains these heroic archetypes.

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores "The Battles of Coxinga" by Chikamatsu Monzemon. It's an epic tale with a Sino-Japanese hero taking up arms in China for the family his father once served.

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores the sometimes tragic and occasionally comical relationships between married couples in kabuki. Explore these dramatic tales of fidelity and romance.

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke reveals the wide variety of props used by tachiyaku, the male roles in kabuki. Explore the all-important katana sword, tobacco pipes, footwear and gold coins.

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores two acts from this gidayu kyogen play. It's a fantastical, dramatic, and deeply moving piece of theater.

How do the cast and crew prepare for a kabuki performance? Actor Kataoka Ainosuke guides us through the rehearsals and technical complexities of a recent nationwide tour.

Kabuki is full of music played both on- and off-stage. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke and musician Kawase Roshu guide us through the beautiful complexities of sankyoku.

Dance is an integral part of kabuki, showcasing personality and inner emotion, as well as skill. Explore this mesmerizing facet of kabuki with actor Kataoka Ainosuke.