by Magali Bugne (EASt/ULB, Maison franco-japonaise MAE/CNRS)

After being placed under the supervision of the Imperial Household Agency (Kunaishō) in 1909, Noh theatre underwent a steady institutionalization as a state-supported performing art. This process eventually culminated in its inscription on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2008, reinforcing its public image as a highly codified tradition. 

Yet in recent years, we have seen the emergence of new productions created outside the official repertoire, particularly on private stages. This class will examine several of these contemporary developments, such as the growing visibility of women performers, the Ōtsuki troupe's manga-based Noh adaptations, and the creation of English-language Noh made by non-Japanese practitioners. Through these case studies, students will not only deepen their understanding of Noh, but also examine how contemporary creators use the form of Noh (text, stage, kata) to renegotiate its relationship with contemporary audiences despite its strong association with cultural heritage.

Tuesday 5th May 2026, from 2pm until 4pm

Room S.H3244
Building H3
ULB - Campus Solbosch

Free entrance