Kabuki is a visually splendid, highly stylised, traditional form of Japanese theatre. Often compared to opera, because of its theatrical forms and speech patterns, Kabuki has a history as long as the western Shakespearean tradition. This tradition is still very much alive and enjoyed by many in Japan today.

The Japan Centre at the Australian National University has a long history of presenting these stunning plays, bringing Kabuki to Australian audiences. This year, our production of Enokido Kenji’s Ninjô Banashi Bunshichi Motoyui will our twenty second season.

In the interests of sharing this splendid art form with as many people as possible, Za Kabuki’s productions are non-profit and, more significantly, admission is free. We feel that easy acces to Traditional Japanese culture is important aspect of our production, and your contribution would help us to continue this tradition which facilitates Australians' experience of Japanese culture.

To further the interests of cultural exchange, the original Japanese text is interspersed with English, making the performances vibrant and fun, inspiring lively humour with an Australian twist. In keeping with the Japanese tradition of onnagata female roles are taken on by male cast members... but in the interests of fairness, the male roles are subsequently played by females. The all-Australian cast is composed of people studying Japanese language and culture. Our performances allow cast and crew a valuable cultural experience, working with native Japanese speakers, to produce a spectacular show.

Last year Za Kabuki performed at the ANU Arts Centre to audiences so full we had to turn people away at the doors. Our production of Iwashiuri no Koihikiami - ‘Sardine-Seller draws the net of love’, by Yukio Mishima, was a resounding success and this year's show, Topknot Bunshichi, a story of human relations was equally well received.

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