Okuni
THE WOMAN WHO CREATED KABUKI
Combining authentic dance, live music, and storytelling, Okuni tells the true story of a young woman who in 1603 defied societal norms and gender roles to create Kabuki, one of Japan’s most iconic art forms. Performing on the riverbanks of Kyoto, Okuni and her all-female troupe captivated audiences by portraying both men and women with flamboyant costumes and swaggering style. Her bold, satirical performances quickly gained popularity, earning her the title “Best in the World” from the government. However, as imitators and concerns about morality grew, women were banned from performing Kabuki, and the tradition became an all-male domain—a practice that continues today. Presented by the bilingual Japanese-English theater company Amaterasu Za, Okuni brings to life the extraordinary journey of the woman who broke barriers and founded a theatrical tradition that has endured for over 400 years.
“Okuni is a story of defiance, creativity, and the power of female empowerment. In 1603, Okuni broke societal barriers and gender norms to create an art form thatwould last over 400 years. I was inspired to write this play because, even today, women are often marginalized in spaces they have helped to build. Okuni’s journey is a reminder that women’s contributions to culture, art, and society are invaluable. Through this production, we celebrate not only Okuni’s legacy but the strength of women everywhere who continue to push boundaries and redefine what is possible."
— Ako Dachs, Writer, Director, and Choreographer of Okuni
The cast included Ako, Yasushi Kimura, and musician Fumi Tanakadate. The design team included lighting design by Aaron Bowersox, set design by Josh Dachs, projection design by Cinthia Chen, sound design Chad Raines, costume design Ako Dachs, wig design Mitsuteru Okuyama, original composition by Fumi Tanakadate and Ako Dachs, production stage manager is Madelein Blossom, assistant stage manager is Sabrina Morabito and Kanako Morita was the assistant producer.
Okuni ran 90 minutes with no intermission.
