Bunraku Artist Development Project: Cultivating World-Class Performers for Global Recognition

BUNRAKU KYOKAI

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Project Objectives

The project brings together Bunraku performers and producers to create new works in collaboration with other genres. Through performances and promotional efforts that resonate with contemporary and international audiences, it aims to develop new fan bases, elevate the reputation of Bunraku artists, and increase interest in classical masterpieces. The initiative also fosters and discovers the next generation of Bunraku practitioners, with the goal of establishing sustainable and globally active careers.

Project Approach

New Bunraku works will be created and performed through collaborations with other genres, such as Chaplin’s City Lights and manga. Overseas Bunraku performances will be actively promoted to raise awareness. By combining international tours and premieres of overseas and manga-based works in Japan, this project fosters globally active talent and boosts audience interest.

Public interest Incorporated Foundations BUNRAKU KYOKAI

The Bunraku Association is a public interest incorporated foundation dedicated to preserving and promoting Ningyō Jōruri Bunraku, a form of Performing Arts in which narration (tayū), shamisen music, and puppet manipulation are performed together in harmony. Originating in Osaka in the late Edo period, Bunraku reached its golden age in the early Meiji period, but later faced significant challenges due to societal and entertainment changes following World War II.
In 1963, the association was established—taking over operations from Shochiku—through the cooperation of the national government, Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, NHK, and the Kansai business community.
In 1984, the opening of the National Bunraku Theatre provided a permanent venue. Bunraku was designated an Important Intangible Cultural Property in 1995, and recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008.As one of Japan’s most iconic traditional performing arts, the association’s mission is to promote and preserve Bunraku and contribute to the advancement of Japanese culture.

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A scene from "Hinomi-yagura no dan (The Fire Watchtower)" in Date Musume Koi no Higanoko, from a previous Bunraku performance at the National Theatre of Japan
© National Theatre of Japan
Performance at Japan Society, NY during the USA Bunraku tour, 2024.
Photo: Tomoko Ogawa
Performance at Japan Society, NY during the USA Bunraku tour, 2024.
Photo: Tomoko Ogawa