Christ's Resurrection - The subject of a Japanese classical dance performed for the time in history.: Revolutionary daparture for tokyo's 500- year old classical Noh dances is being performed this year. A 30-minute dance depicting, or symbolising Christ's Resurrection, takes place in a setting supposed to represent "Dawn before the grave of Jesus". As in all Noh dances, the dancers wear masks, and the one representing Christ has been specially prepared by the new Christian Noh Committee which intends sending replicas - to Queen Elizabeth of England, the Pope, and the President of the U.S.A. The Noh dance difficult for a Westerner to appriciate and is the most classical form of Japanese drama. Itis characterised by subtle restraint, and yet depicts the deepest emotions. In its simlplest essentials it consist of a dance proceded by a dialogue explaining its significance. The dancers is called a " shite" or doer, and the subordinate characters who do the explaining are called "Waki". There is a chorus of seven or eight who chant from the side of the stage to the music and flute, two hand drums and a stick drum. The stage is built to strict rules measuring 18 feet square with curved roof . On the rear wall a pine tree is painted, and the other three sides are open. The chorus sits on the right and the changing room. Japanese Noh dancers perform christian easter dance: In the dressing room the principal dancer of "Shite" is attired in the specially made robes symbolising christ. On the head is being placed a crown. The anonymous dancer holds his mask in place while adjustments are made by the "waki" or assistan.
Photo measures 8 x 10 inches.
Photo is dated --none.
This item is an original collectible vintage print from a news archive, not a digital download or reproduction. Please see our FAQ for more information.
Photo back:
