Season 5

01 Enjoying Kabuki with Kataoka Ainosuke Episode 14th April 2018 This time Kataoka Ainosuke takes his first turn as our host. Ainosuke is a renowned kabuki actor. He'll be our guide to the attractions of kabuki looking at some of the roles he's played. 02 Kabuki Conventions Episode 22nd May 2018 Explore the fascinating conventions and traditions of kabuki. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explains the origins and meanings of kabuki's unique make-up, its onnagata techniques, and stage machinery. 03 Handsome Heroes of Kabuki Episode 36th June 2018 Explore the different types of romantic hero who appear in kabuki. From sweet, comic charmers to brooding bad boys, actor Kataoka Ainosuke explains these heroic archetypes. 04 The Battles of Coxinga Episode 44th July 2018 Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores "The Battles of Coxinga" by Chikamatsu Monzemon. It's an epic tale with a Sino-Japanese hero taking up arms in China for the family his father once served. 05 Married Love Episode 55th September 2018 Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores the sometimes tragic and occasionally comical relationships between married couples in kabuki. Explore these dramatic tales of fidelity and romance. 06 Props for Male Roles Episode 63rd October 2018 Actor Kataoka Ainosuke reveals the wide variety of props used by tachiyaku, the male roles in kabuki. Explore the all-important katana sword, tobacco pipes, footwear and gold coins. 07 Genpei Nunobiki no Taki: The White Cascade of the Genji Banner Episode 77th November 2018 Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores two acts from this gidayu kyogen play. It's a fantastical, dramatic, and deeply moving piece of theater. 08 Before a Kabuki Tour Begins Episode 82nd January 2019 How do the cast and crew prepare for a kabuki performance? Actor Kataoka Ainosuke guides us through the rehearsals and technical complexities of a recent nationwide tour. 09 Sankyoku: Kabuki Chamber Music Episode 96th February 2019 Kabuki is full of music played both on- and off-stage. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke and musician Kawase Roshu guide us through the beautiful complexities of sankyoku. 10 Kabuki Dance for Tachiyaku Male Roles Episode 106th March 2019 Dance is an integral part of kabuki, showcasing personality and inner emotion, as well as skill. Explore this mesmerizing facet of kabuki with actor Kataoka Ainosuke.