Japanese Rakugo Storytelling at Harvard

Description

Rakugo is a 400-year-old tradition of storytelling in Japan. Literally “fallen words,” rakugo consists of a brief personal anecdote followed by a longer narrative, ultimately dropping a humorous punchline. Given only a bare stage, a paper fan and small towel for props, and a cushion to kneel on, the performer (rakugoka) single-handedly engages the audience in the comedic tale with a variety of distinctive characters, expressive gestures, and clever wordplay.

Japanese with English translation.