“Unforgettable” is how many describe an evening at the Hosho No Theatre. This Tokyo venue offers a taste of Japan’s unique aesthetic sense. Here at the Hosho No Theatre you are not just watching a play. You are stepping into a world of tradition.
The Hosho No Theatre specializes in Noh. Noh is a classic Japanese musical drama. Hosho is actually a specific school of Noh. Five schools specialize in shite. Shite is the role of protagonists in Noh. These schools are Kanze Hosho Kita Kongo and Komparu. All were founded in Nara about 600 years ago except Kita.
Hosho is the second largest of these schools. The main Noh theater is located in Bunkyo near Tokyo Dome. That is where we are right now. Most Noh players in the Hosho school live in Tokyo. This includes the Soke. The Soke is the hereditary head of the family.
The Hosho School’s history is rich. It began with Kannami’s eldest brother Hosho Dayu. His group the Tobi-za was one of four Yamato Sarugaku Yoza groups. They took the name of their leading performer. That performer was Hosho Dayu.
The fifth shogun of the Tokugawa period favored the Hosho style. They were also the favorite troupe in Kagahan. Kagahan is now the Ishikawa area. Because of this they still have influence in Tokyo and the Hokuriku area. The 11th shogun Ienari also liked the Hosho School.
Hosho’s style is known as dignified. The Hosho singing is said to be sensitive and refined. Hosho is described as introspective compared to Kanze. Its choreography is simpler and more abstract. This can make it harder to understand.
The Hosho school has a complex musical scale in their songs. This is called Utai. Utai has many different notes and melodies. These often rise and fall. Because of Utai they called the school Utai Hosho.
Hosho performs many times each month. They perform in both Tokyo and Kanazawa. In Tokyo they have two monthly performance series. These are called Goun and Tsukinami. Goun means five clouds. This name comes from the symbol of Hosho. It is drawn on fans during Hosho training.
Visiting the Hosho No Theatre is simple. It is across the road from Tokyo Dome City. You can easily reach it from Suidobashi Station on the Mita Line. Performances vary. Some start as early as noon. This lets you enjoy a lunchtime performance before seeing Tokyo Dome City.
The theater provides English descriptions. This makes it easy to follow along. This is true even if you are new to Noh. The schedule is on the theater’s website. Some performances do not have assigned seating. Arrive early to get a good seat.
The Hosho No Theatre is not just a place for performances. It also serves as a special event space. It has a unique taste of Japan’s aesthetic sense. The stage is extraordinary for any event. The spacious lobby is great for lively receptions. Give your guests an unforgettable day here at Hosho No Theatre.