Japanese Theatre Arts Summer Conservatory

Young theatre artists are invited to participate in a week-long performance-based training session in the 600 year-old Japanese theatre forms of Nohgaku (accompllished entertainment).

Nohgaku is the world’s oldest continuously practiced theatrical tradition. For over six centuries audiences have experienced its tremendous expressive power. Made up of the Japanese performance traditions Noh and Kyogen, it is the physical and vocal technique at the heart of Theatre of Yugen’s award winning performance work. For over 30 years, Theatre of Yugen has been the only company in the US dedicated to performing and training in Nohgaku, and now, for the first time, is offering week-long conservatory-style training experiences for young adults.

With training in the dance, chant, costume, mask and staging practices of Noh and Kyogen, this is an ideal and enjoyable opportunity to explore time-tested unique theatrical principles that combine to create Nohgaku, a highly refined stage aesthetic. In the morning, students will develop vocal and physical skills by training in traditional Japanese songs and dances and learn how to ‘put on’ a character from the traditional repertoire. Afternoons are spent learning traditional staging techniques and developing material for the end of week performance for family and friends.

Theatre of Yugen’s Japanese Theatre Arts Summer Conservatory will provide an opportunity for young adults to study with professional theatre artists who have committed themselves to working as an ensemble in a traditional theatre form. At the heart of our training is the belief that acting is a skill dependent upon choice, discipline and practice.

More info: http://www.theatreofyugen.org/?spec=39