Plays
—The Tale of Genji Reimagined in Noh
This section introduces two representative Noh plays adapted from The Tale of Genji: Aoi no Ue and Nonomiya. Each performance visualizes emotion and memory through masks, costumes, and movement, reflecting how Noh transforms literary emotion into stage art.
Aoi no Ue — The Manifestation of Jealousy
Background :
Adapted from the “Aoi” chapter of The Tale of Genji, Aoi no Ue tells the story of Lady Rokujo’s spirit, consumed by jealousy toward Lady Aoi, who is pregnant with Genji’s child. Her suppressed emotions manifest as a vengeful ghost that attacks Aoi.
Aoi no Ue — The Manifestation of Jealousy
Visual Language :
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Mask: Hannya mask, expressing rage and sorrow at once.
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Costume: Red and black robes represent burning emotions.
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Stage: Sparse setting with cherry branches and fans symbolizing fleeting life and love.
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Lighting: Gradual dimming enhances the tragic atmosphere.
Nonomiya — The Memory of Elegance
Background ：
Nonomiya is based on the “Nonomiya” chapter of The Tale of Genji. The play centers on the spirit of Lady Rokujo, who reappears at the Nonomiya Shrine after death, still bound by jealousy and regret. Through prayer, her spirit finds peace and transcendence.
Nonomiya — The Memory of Elegance
Visual Language ：
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Mask: Jo-onna mask, gentle and reflective.
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Costume: Ivory and gold suggest purification and spiritual calm.
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Stage: Fallen leaves and minimal props evoke memory and transience.
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Tone: Soft chanting and still gestures express reconciliation.
[Aoi no Ue (Lady Aoi) : Story Paper PDF : 607KB ］
[Nonomiya : Story Paper PDF : 560KB ］
Visual & Emotional Comparison
Nonomiya emphasizes subtle melancholy, nostalgia, and gentle longing, using soft tones for the Maeshite and deep red layered robes for the Nochishite to convey lingering attachment. In contrast, Aoi no Ue highlights intense jealousy, rage, and vengeance, with vivid reds, bold layering, and more dramatic mask expressions to communicate explosive emotion. While both plays use masks, costumes, wigs, and fans to externalize internal feeling, Nonomiya presents emotions in a refined, introspective, and graceful manner, whereas Aoi no Ue delivers a tense, confrontational, and visually striking expression of passion.
