Noh Actor
のうやくしゃ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A specialist technician who performs chants and shimai in Noh theater, a traditional Japanese performing art.
Description
Noh actors (Noh performers) take roles such as Shite, Waki, and Ko in Noh plays, expressing stories through chants (yo-uta) and shimai. They master highly stylized performance techniques using Noh masks, costumes, and stage conventions, perform while understanding ensemble with hayashi accompaniment, timing, and direction. In many cases, they enter as disciples from a young age under the iemoto system, honing their skills through rigorous practice. Performances are held in Noh theaters, shrines, and temples, engaging in preservation and succession of regional traditional performing arts and cultural events.
Future Outlook
Noh theater is designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, with active promotion through domestic and international performances and workshops. While supported by government and local subsidies, challenges such as aging performers and changing audiences exist, making successor training an urgent issue.
Personality Traits
Cooperative / High concentration / Patient / Rich sensitivity / Values discipline
Work Style
Affiliated with Noh association / Freelance / Participation in regional events / Tours / Workshops
Career Path
Practice student (apprentice) → Noh performer (under iemoto) → Independent Noh performer → Performance and workshop activities → Guidance and succession for successors
Required Skills
Chant and shimai skills / Handling of Noh masks and costumes / Physical expression / Reading classical Japanese / Traditional stage performance
Recommended Skills
Communication skills (foreign languages) / Hayashi instrument performance / Knowledge of traditional performing arts / Stage direction
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Strict adherence to details of Noh masks, costumes, and movements is required. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Long-term practice and mastery of diverse plays are required. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical endurance is needed to withstand heavy costumes and long performances. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Coordination with hayashi performers and chorus is necessary. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Mathematical analysis is almost unrelated to the job. |
| Planning & Organization | Primarily focused on performance, with planning and operations handled by others. |
Aliases
- Noh performer
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