Oka Onitarô's dance-drama "Kakuju Senzai" was premiered in November 1928 at the Kabukiza [more details].

The original dance-drama was in two scenes, "Sôshû Yui-ga-Hama" (at the Yui Beach in Sôshû) and "Kôshû Tsuru Tôge" (at the Crane Pass in Kôshû).

In this mesmerizing dance, two cranes stand in perfect harmony, embodying the Senzai character from the Nô drama "Okina." The dance symbolizes longevity and prosperity, representing one of the essential roles in this ancient ceremonial performance. The Nô drama also features Okina, who dances for long life and prosperity, and Sanbasô, dancing for fertility and a bountiful harvest.

The setting is amidst lush mountains, where abundant pine trees thrive among colossal boulders. As a red platform reveals an orchestra of koto, shamisen, kokyû, and shakuhachi players, singers extol the beauty of the pines at Crane Pass in Kôshû. The melodious voices of cranes resonate throughout the orchestra. A male and a female crane, adorned in pristine white attire, joyfully dance together, celebrating their return to this breathtaking mountain pass. They eagerly anticipate savoring the wonders of nature, from verdant landscapes and cloudy skies to the sea's waves, cherry blossoms drifting in spring, and the autumn moon reflected on the lake. It's a blissful life they envision spending together in this tranquil sanctuary.

Kakuju Senzai

Prints & Illustrations