An Introduction to Bunraku: the Puppet Theater of Japan

Professor Claudia Orenstein will discuss the subject of
Bunraku, also known as ningyō jōruri, a multidimensional art that marries exquisitely carved puppet figures, operated by teams of performers, with dramatic narration to shamisen accompaniment. Drawing from early ritual practices and the work of medieval itinerant bards, in the Edo period, bunraku became a popular entertainment appealing to restless urban audiences with tales of love, war, and personal sacrifice. Contributions of great dramatic writers like Chikamatsu Monzaemon (1653-1724), and novelties in puppet construction, not only supported the form’s past success, but have continued to make it a unique art form admired throughout the world.