Izumo no Okuni

Overview

Izumo no Okuni was born about 1571. This time period in Japanese history was fraught with struggle. It was known as the Period of Warring States, that is, the land barrons (daimyo) fought against one another for power. Her father was a blacksmith for the Izumo Grand Shrine and, consequently, the family served as well. It was a custom to send priests and young women, such as Buddhist nuns, among others to solicit contributions. Izumo was sent to Kyoto to perform sacred dances and songs. Her Okuni Kabuki was known and applauded throughout the land. After 25 years she retired.

Cast

Rei Kikukawa

Okuni

Yukari Onoe

Okaga

Masato Sakai

Sankuro

Junkichi Orimoto

Baian

Kanji Tsuda

Kyozo

Natsuki Harada

Okiku

Kazuma Suzuki

Densuke