Shochikubai Yuki no Akebono
【松竹梅雪曙】
【SHOCHIKUBAIYUKINOAKEBONO】
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Oshichi and her lover Kichisaburo in “Shochikubai Yuki no Akebono”. Bando Tamasaburo 5th as Oshichi and Nakamura Tokizo 5th as Kichisaburo. January, 1986 at the National Theatre. （Y_E0100135000127）
The original work is a Gidayu-Kyogen play titled “Datemusume Koi no Higanoko”, later dramatized by Kawatake Mokuami in 1856. The work is renowned for a scene in which the leading role Oshichi of Yaoya (vegetable seller) beats the drum of a fire watchtower for her lover Kichisaburo, while being already prepared for death penalty. Ichikawa Kodanji 4th performed Oshichi by Ningyoburi (an acting which imitates the movement of puppets), and this direction has been passed down to the current generation. One highlight of this play is a scene in which Oshichi performs a dance in the snow in the “Ningyoburi” manner, supported by a prompter in Kurogo dress. Oshichi was a real person and often taken up in Kabuki plays.
