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University Library, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

MPAL Exhibits 2020-2021: Kabuki

Documents exhibits at the Music and Performing Arts Library during the 2020-2021 academic year.

Find More Related Materials:

Below are links to related subject searches in the UIUC Library Catalog. Some results are physical items in MPAL and are only available by request.

Kabuki Theater Playlists

About This Exhibit

Kabuki is one of the most traditional types of Japanese performance, dating back to the early 1600s.  Kabuki is a dance drama, which can be defined under one of three main categories: historical (jidaimono), domestic (sewamono) and dance (shosagoto).  Kabuki is recognized by its alluring costumes, brightly colored stage makeup and stylized drama of each play.  Traditional kabuki instruments include drums, flutes, wooden clappers and the samisen.

The resources in this exhibit include: introductions to kabuki for new attendees, the main components of kabuki (seen above), the history of kabuki, the locations of famous kabuki theaters and videos of kabuki plays.

Kabuki

Selected Items

Online items are available for immediate access. Physical items can be requested through the library catalog for pick-up.