A style of spoken drama based on laughter and comedy, kyogen is often compared to commedia dell'arte. With more than 70 years in the art form, Artistic Director Mansaku Nomura has been designated a Living National Treasure of Japan. His company, The Mansaku-no-Kai Kyogen Company, is known for captivating interpretations of comic classics and distinguished performances by the Nomura family. Last seen at the Kennedy Center in 2008 as part of the JAPAN: culture + hyperculture festival, they bring Suminuri ("Black Crocodile Tears"), Tsuki-mi Zato ("The Moon-Viewing Blindman"), and Kubi Hiki ("Neck Pulling").
Performed in Japanese, with English supertitles.
Performance Timing: Piece 1 - 25 min.; Piece 2 - 30 min.; Intermission - 15 min.; Piece 3 - 25 min.