Scripts:
Plots of plays are usually based on historical events, lighthearted and entertaining dramas, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, or other well-known stories in the Japanese culture. Additionally, to enhance one’s enjoyment, it would be good to read a little about the story before attending the show.
At some theaters, it is possible to rent headsets which provide English narrations and explanations of the play (Kabuki Japan-Guide). Sword fights were often times part of the productions. Up until 1680, the plays used real swords. Then considering the danger and potential injuries it caused, they switch to fake but decorated realistic-looking swords. (Kabuki Japan-Guide). Actors got very into these fights and even occasionally improv-ed their fights once they were very advanced (Kabuki Japan-Guide).
Plots of plays are usually based on historical events, lighthearted and entertaining dramas, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, or other well-known stories in the japanese culture. Additionally, to enhance one’s enjoyment, it would be good to read a little about the story before attending the show. At some theaters, it is possible to rent headsets which provide English narrations and explanations of the play (Brown, 139-143).
Many classic American tales like The Ugly Duckling have been adapted and brought on by the Kabuki theater. Kabuki actors, writers, and directors are all very inspired by English tales and stories. (Reischauer, 214)
Sets:
Kabuki Sets often had rotating platforms in which actors would rotate to create the illusion of appearance/disappearance of themselves. Another specific feature to Kabuki stages is a footbridge that leads through the audience, creating a dramatic entrance or exit. Entrances and exits were very important features of Kabuki theater and they were always very dramatic. The scene was also set by certain music or tracks being played between or during scenes, live and performed with traditional instruments. All these elements make it so the performance is captivating and intriguing to the audience (Kabuki Japan-Guide).