Japan’s cultural comic theatre comes alive on Victoria Memorial stage

The consulate general of Japan in Kolkata hosted an engaging Kyogen performance at Victoria Memorial Hall on February 18, to celebrate Japan’s vibrant culture.

Kyogen, Japan’s traditional form of comic theatre, captivated the audience with its unique blend of humour and tradition. The performance was brought to life by the Shigeyama Sengoro family, whose association with Kyogen traces back to being patronised by the Kyoto Imperial Palace and retained by the feudal lord of Hikone. The three former heads of the family have been honoured as ‘Living National Treasures’ by the Japanese government.

Victoria Memorial Hall glows during the performance and (right) consul general of Japan Nakagawa Koichi addresses the audience

Official Press Release

Back in the 10th century, the Sengoro family remained dedicated to preserving and innovating Kyogen. The family also ventured beyond the boundaries of traditional theatres, bringing Kyogen to diverse audiences in different settings. Their commitment to making Kyogen enjoyable for all underscores their enduring legacy in Japan’s cultural landscape.

The Kyogen performance at Victoria Memorial Hall featured four talented members of the Shigeyama Sengoro family — Shigeyama Sengoro, Shigeyama Tatsumasa, Shigeyama Toramasa, and Iguchi Tatsuya. Their captivating portrayal mesmerised nearly 300 members of the audience.

My Kolkata spoke to Nakagawa Koichi, consul general of Japan, on the occasion.

“I was amazed to see the reaction and laughter of the audience in response to the movement of the Kyogen performers. I found the audience very appreciative of Kyogen. As Kyogen has been passed down from generations and reflects the roots from which the sentiments and way of life of Japanese people have been developed. I believe that Bengali people can deepen their understanding of authentic Japanese culture. This will in turn make way for promoting people to people exchanges in various fields of society and culture between Japan and India."

In his address, Koichi expressed hope that Japan’s cultural richness would serve as a catalyst for fostering deeper people-to-people exchanges between Japan and Kolkata.