Onnagata

Definition

Onnagata refers to a male actor in traditional Japanese kabuki theater who performs female roles. This practice has deep roots in the history of kabuki, where women were originally banned from performing, leading to the rise of onnagata as a critical component of the art form. The onnagata embodies femininity through performance techniques, costume, and makeup, creating a unique representation of women on stage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Onnagata actors are trained extensively to portray feminine characteristics, focusing on voice modulation, body language, and emotional expression.
2. The performance of onnagata often involves the use of specific makeup styles, such as kumadori, which enhance the portrayal of femininity.
3. Famous onnagata include actors like Ichikawa Danjūrō and Matsumoto Kōshirō, who have made significant contributions to the craft and are celebrated for their artistry.
4. The practice of onnagata reflects societal views on gender roles in Japan, with male actors presenting an idealized version of femininity that may differ from real women's experiences.
5. Even after women were allowed back into kabuki in the late 19th century, onnagata continued to play a prominent role in the performances and remains respected within the art form.

Review Questions

• How does the onnagata tradition in kabuki theater reflect the societal views on gender roles in Japan?
  • The onnagata tradition showcases how gender roles were perceived in Japanese society by allowing male actors to embody femininity. This practice highlights an idealized image of women that may not fully represent their real experiences. By performing in this manner, onnagata actors reinforce traditional gender norms while simultaneously challenging them through their artistic expression.
• Discuss the training and techniques involved in preparing an onnagata actor for their role in kabuki theater.
  • Training for an onnagata actor involves rigorous study of various techniques to effectively portray femininity. This includes mastering voice modulation to achieve a higher pitch typical of female characters and practicing subtle body movements that convey grace and delicacy. Additionally, onnagata actors learn about specific makeup styles like kumadori to enhance their appearance on stage, further emphasizing their role as female characters.
• Evaluate the impact of onnagata on contemporary representations of gender within Japanese theater and culture.
  • Onnagata has had a lasting influence on contemporary Japanese theater and culture by continuing to challenge and redefine gender representations. The portrayal of femininity by male actors can prompt discussions about gender fluidity and the performative aspects of identity. As modern productions increasingly embrace diverse interpretations of gender, the legacy of onnagata remains relevant, fostering dialogue about how gender is expressed and perceived in today's society.

Related terms

Kabuki: A classical Japanese dance-drama known for its stylized performances, elaborate costumes, and vibrant makeup, which includes both male and female characters.

Takarazuka Revue: A Japanese all-female musical theater troupe that performs in a style reminiscent of traditional kabuki but exclusively features female performers playing both male and female roles.

Noh Theater: A traditional form of Japanese theater characterized by slow movements, masks, and a focus on themes of spirituality and nature, where male actors also perform female roles.