​CARVING A CHARACTER: THE HIDDEN CRAFT OF THE NOH MASK 14 SEP 2024

In collaboration with the Japan Foundation, and Jesus College, we’re thrilled to present a talk and demonstration on the artistry of Noh masks. We will convene in Elena Hall, Jesus College, Cambridge. Tickets available below.

Noh theatre is a major traditional Japanese performing art, recognised as an Important Intangible Cultural Property by the Japanese government and Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Though characterised by stylised movements and singing of its actors, it would not be complete without the unique, carefully carved masks they wear as they perform. These allow Noh actors to control their character’s expression by making minute changes to the angle from which the audience sees their mask.

In this special one-off event, organised in celebration of the series of activities Tradition to Modernity: Understanding Noh Theatre from its Establishment 650 Years Ago to Contemporary Times taking place in August and September, KITAZAWA Hideta—master craftsperson and second-generation Noh mask-maker—will introduce the fascinating world of Noh masks, demonstrating the techniques used to make them while offering a rare chance to take a closer look at these wooden works of art. He will also present some of his more recent creations inspired by contemporary characters.

KITAZAWA Hideta is a wood sculptor and Noh mask maker based in Tokyo. He learned traditional wood carving of Buddhist and Shinto statuary from his father, KITAZAWA Ikkyo, and later studied Noh mask carving. He currently produces classical Noh and Kyogen masks and has been designated a master craftsman by the Tokyo Metropolitan government. KITAZAWA has also created numerous shinsaku (new) masks for foreign-language Noh productions, notably those of Theatre Nohgaku, as well as for other Noh-influenced plays. He has given workshops and demonstrations in Japan and internationally, and a book on his work entitled Noh and Kyogen Masks will be published by Prestel in September 2024.

FINDING THE VENUE

The event will take place in the Elena Hall, which is located in West Court, Jesus College. The pedestrian entrance can be accessed from Jesus Lane. Please see the detailed map below for further information.

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