Kabuki Stage

Before learning about Japanese theater, I had few preconceptions of the art and style, most of which came from Hollywood movies, such as Memoirs of a Geisha. As we learned about techniques and different forms of theater in class, the complexity of the Kabuki stage fascinated me. The revolving stages and trap door were very impressive, and made me ask why would this type of theater would need such props - especially in comparison to the simplicity of the Noh stage.
    This question reflects on an essential characteristic of Kabuki theater - the element of dramatic transformations. The Hanamichi, or bridge, stretches out towards the audience, and is not simply a tool for actors to walk on or move closer to the audience. Instead, dramatic and important events occur on the bridge. This highlights the drastic moment where, say for example, a character undergoes an impressive costume transformation.
    In contrast to my initial thought, elaborate props have been part of Kabuki theater for hundreds of years. Even without modern-day technology, Kabuki theater has used tools like trap doors for rapid set changes and for an actor’s quick entry or exit from stage. The fact that these elements of the Japanese theater have existed for so long is one reason I have enjoyed studying this form of art.