Stage Props: Shouldering Stage Artistry Single-handedly to Support the Actors (Asahi Shimbun Digital Magazine &[and])
The work of stage props (Ōdōgu), which supports Kabuki stage artistry, is handled by a long-established company with roots in the Edo period, covering everything from production to on-stage direction.Summary
Kabuki, originating from the 'Kabuki Odori' in 1603, is a comprehensive performing art spanning over 400 years. Amid renewed attention following the success of the movie "Kokuhō," focus is being placed on the craftsmanship of the "Ōdōgu" (stage props) that support the stage. The Ōdōgu's role involves creating and setting up elements like backdrops, structures, trees, and bridges. At the Kabuki-za Theatre, this work is managed by Kabuki-za Stage Co., Ltd., a long-established company tracing its lineage back to the Edo period's "Ōdōgu Hasegawa." Their work is divided across two locations: a production factory in Matsudo, Chiba, and the Kabuki-za itself. Responsibilities are specialized by department, including the Production Section for structural frameworks, the First Art Section for painting backdrops, the Second Art Section for coloring walls and pillars, the Design Section for creating 1/50th scale drawings ("Dōguchō"), and the Kabuki-za Section for setting up props during the performance and executing effects like falling snow or petals. This last section also includes specialists for sound effects ("Tsukeuchi") and curtain operation ("Maku-biki").
(Source：Yahoo!ニュース)