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Ichikawa Danjūrō XI

Japanese Kabuki actor

Quick Summary

Ichikawa Danjūrō XI (1909–1965) was a prominent Japanese Kabuki actor in the post-World War II era. He was known for performing in both traditional and modern plays, with his portrayal of Prince Genji in an adaptation of The Tale of Genji being a highlight of postwar Kabuki theater.1

Kabuki is a traditional Japanese popular drama that combines singing and dancing in a stylized manner. Originating in the early 17th century, it evolved from female dancers to all-male performers, becoming a significant theatrical form in Japan for four centuries. The art form emphasizes actors' skills in visual and vocal performance, with many actors inheriting names and styles from famous ancestors, indicated by generation numbers.2

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. Ichikawa Family
  2. Kabuki

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