Tsubouchi Shôyô's Nagauta-based dance-drama "Kanzan Jittoku" was premiered in November 1911 at the Imperial Theater with a non-Kabuki casting: Tsubouchi Shôyô's nephew Tsubouchi Daizô and the actress Tanaka Iseko in the roles of Kanzan and Jittoku.

After WWII, it was revived at the Kabukiza in September 1957 with Bandô Mitsugorô VII and his son Bandô Minosuke VI in the roles of Kanzan and Jittoku.

The grand mansion room reveals a striking sight. In the toko-no-ma alcove, a masterpiece painting by the renowned artist Sesshû depicts the sages Kanzan and Jittoku. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that the painting is merely a frame. The two characters have come to life, standing before the artwork, perfectly mimicking their positions in the drawing. One of them is holding a scroll, while the other wields a broom.

The figures depicted in the drawing come to life, moving gracefully to the center of the stage. It's clear that they are savoring the simple pleasures of nature, basking in a pure state of enlightenment. First, the hermit Kanzan, who resides in a cave, performs a regal dance, extolling the beautiful melodies produced by the uncomplicated instruments they use to delight each other. Soon, Jittoku retrieves a gourd from the pine tree in the painting, enabling them to partake in its contents and heighten their enjoyment.

They dance and revel in each other's company, and then Jittoku takes the spotlight with a solo dance. Suddenly, the rising moon catches their eye and they greet the sight joyfully. They move with the carefree bliss of the enlightened sages of old. Then, quietly, they return to their places in the painting on the wall.

Jittoku (left) & Kanzan (right)