Rakugo is the main theme in Akane-banashi series.
Rakugo Is a traditional Japanese narrative art handed down through the generations that was established in early modern times. It involves a single performer, known as the rakugoka, who uses only a fan and a small towel as props to bring multiple characters to life. The stories are typically comedic, with a clever twist or punchline at the end. While rooted in Edo-period entertainment, rakugo continues to thrive today as a cherished cultural tradition, celebrated for its wit and verbal artistry.
Etymology[]
Rakugo (落語) literally means "words with a punchline" or "words with a fall." It is composed of the kanji 落 (raku) – "fall," and 語 (go) – "word" or "speech." It refers to a storytelling style that ends with a comedic punchline (ochi). The term became popular in the 19th century, although the art form dates back to the Edo period.
Attire and Items[]
Outfits[]
Traditional attire: The rakugoka typically wears traditional Japanese clothing, such as a kimono or hakama (a type of wide-legged pants), during performances. The attire is simple but serves to create a formal, respectful atmosphere for the audience, it color and style of the kimono may vary depending on the rakugoka's rank or the type of performance, though it’s generally kept modest and appropriate to the setting.
Objects[]
Sensu (扇子): A folding fan used by the rakugoka in almost every performance. It serves both as a prop and as a visual aid to help depict various characters or actions. For instance, it can be used to represent a table, a weapon, or a hat.
Tenugui (手ぬぐい): A small towel or handkerchief that can also be used for comedic effect, for wiping sweat or as a prop to represent different objects or parts of the environment in the story.
Tobira (扉): A small wooden sign that might sometimes be used to signify the opening of a scene or the beginning of a new part of the story.
Zabuton (座布団): It is a traditional Japanese sitting cushion, used in everyday life for different purposes; in rakugo, it is essential.
Ranks de Rakugoka[]
The rakugoka is divided into three levels:
- Zenza Rank (前座階級, Zenza Kaikyū): He is the rakugoka who opens the performances.
- Futatsume Rank (二ツ目階級, Futatsume Kaikyū): He is the second in rank.
- Shin'uchi Rank (真打階級, Shinuchi Kaikyū): He is the main attraction.
In Akane-Banashi to be promoted in rank it is necessary for the rakugoka to obtain experience, being a process of years to be promoted in rank. With the exception of the Arakawa School who has some requirements to rise in rank quickly.
performance[]
In Rakugo performances, there are three basic structural components of the presentation, such as:
- Makura (枕) - It is the opening that the rakugoka makes to start his presentation and prepare the audience for the Honda.
- Honda (本題) - It is the main story that the Rakugoka will present.
- Sage (サゲ) - It is the conclusion of the story.
Storys[]
In Rakugo, there are several types of classic stories, such as:
- Ninjōbanashi (人情噺) - Tragicomic stories
- Kaidanbanashi (怪談話) - Scary ghost stories
- Shibaibanashi (芝居話) - Dramatic stories with sentimental elements
- Ongyokubanashi (音曲話) - Stories with musical narratives
References[]