What is Noh Theatre?

Noh (能) is a classical form of Japanese theatre that combines drama, music, and dance.
It originated in the 14th century (Muromachi period) and was developed by Kan’ami and Zeami.
Noh focuses on emotion, memory, and transformation, often using slow, stylized movements and poetic language.
Unlike Western theatre, Noh relies on symbolism and suggestion rather than realism.

How a Noh Performance Unfolds on Stage?

Noh plays follow a highly refined structure that emphasizes emotional depth rather than fast-paced action. Each performance is a journey—from appearance to revelation, from illusion

to truth.

The Structure of a Noh Play

Main Roles

Shite (主役): The main performer, often a ghost, spirit, or noble figure. The shite usually appears in disguise in the first act, and later reveals their true identity or emotional core.
Waki (脇役): The secondary role, typically a monk, priest, or traveler who encounters the shite and listens to their story.
Ai (間狂言): A supporting character who provides a short interlude (kyōgen) between the two acts, offering explanation or comic relief.

Two-Act Structure

Act I (First Part):The waki meets a mysterious figure (shite)—often appearing as a living person. Through poetic dialogue and song, the shite recounts fragments of their past or emotion.
Interlude (Ai-kyōgen):A brief scene where the ai character explains background details in simpler language. This helps the audience understand the story before the emotional climax.
Act II (Second Part):The shite reappears in their true form—often as a spirit or supernatural being. Through slow, symbolic movement, they relive their emotional suffering or find spiritual release.

Chorus and Musicians

A chorus (地謡, jiutai) of six to eight singers narrates emotion and setting.
Musicians play the flute (能管, nōkan) and drums (太鼓 taiko, 小鼓 kotsuzumi) to mark rhythm and tension.

Together, they create an atmosphere where time feels suspended—more like a dream than a drama.