A Ten Minute 'Peek' at a Kabuki Theatre Evolved into Three Hours! opus 651
| 18 September 2025 1710 Hours | | Art, Custom, Memories |
About 1977, I was travelling home from Sweden,
Heading east from Europe towards California.
One of my 13 stops was in Japan, specifically Kyoto.
Wandering the streets, I came across a Kabuki Theatre.
I went in, found a seat in the back, on an aisle,
And settled in for whatever was to come.
A short performance commenced for about 10 minutes,
When suddenly, mainly--'foreign-looking' tourists
Got up and left (a tour).
I was not at all ready to leave and remained seated.
Then the real show began with all its dramatics!
As I sat, enthralled, a Japanese person came to me,
And handed, in English, a synopsis of each proceeding play.
How thoughtful and helpful in understanding
This wonderful type of theatre.
I remained for three hours, leaving with the locals,
Who had with them, by-the-way,
Bag lunches to enjoy during the performance.
I was so completely glad that I remained
Able to enjoy myself with those locals!
The art of Kabuki remains with me until today.