Rakugo performer (hanashika)
はなしか
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A performer of rakugo, a traditional Japanese storytelling art, who entertains audiences alone by making them laugh.
Description
Rakugo performers perform rakugo at yose theaters or solo recitals, sitting on a kōza stage and using a fan and hand towel as props to differentiate and narrate stories. They train under a master, progressing through stages such as zenshi (apprentice), futatsume (second class), and shin'uchi (full member), acquiring both classical and new rakugo pieces. They gauge the audience's mood with a makura (warm-up talk), perform the main story, and conclude with a bow. In recent years, while preserving tradition, they are also challenging new expressions such as creative rakugo and digital streaming.
Future Outlook
While there are challenges such as declining interest among younger generations and the spread of digital media, new possibilities are expected due to inbound demand and the expansion of online streaming.
Personality Traits
Curious and inquisitive / Patient / Sense of humor / Sharp observation skills / Sociable
Work Style
Event appearances / Media appearances / Online streaming / Solo activities / Yose theater performances
Career Path
Apprentice → Second class → Full member → Independent promoter → Media appearances and lectures
Required Skills
Eloquence / Japanese language proficiency / Performance composition / Situational adaptability / Vocal expression
Recommended Skills
Basic knowledge of sound and lighting / Improvisational acting / Physical expression / Script writing / Theater theory
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Flexibility to adjust the speed and tone of the story according to the venue and audience is necessary. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | The choice of words, timing, and subtle differences in gestures determine the fun of the story. |
| Communication Skills | High communication skills are required to captivate the audience using voice inflection and pauses. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Creativity is demanded to conceive new works in addition to classics and create original performance pieces. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Proactivity is important, such as planning solo recitals or proposing new performance pieces. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | High learning motivation is required to continue acquiring numerous performance pieces. |
| Problem Solving | The ability to respond immediately to audience reactions or mishaps and adjust the performance is necessary. |
| Stress Tolerance | Mental strength is required to perform through stage tension and audience evaluations. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | There is almost no work involving numerical analysis. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Collaboration with others is limited as they mainly perform solo on stage. |
Aliases
- Rakugo artist
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