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Sarugaku: Precursor of Noh

Type Object Region Asia Time 1100–1374

Sarugaku was a composite performing art in medieval Japan's folk and shrine festivals, blending song, dance, comedy, and ritual, and a major precurso…

Timeline

  1. 1100–1185Kyoto · KinkiIn the late Heian period, sarugaku originated from kagura and comic performances at shrine and temple festivals; performing troupes staged shows at shrines and markets, forming a tradition combining song, dance, and variety arts.
  2. 1185–1310Kamakura · KantoThe Kamakura period warrior society also embraced sarugaku, performing at shogunal banquets and temple and temple services; performers and shrine families formed hereditary performance networks.
  3. 1311–1320Japan · JapanBetween 1311 and 1320, sarugaku continued to be performed in Kyoto, Kamakura, Yamato, and elsewhere; performing schools diversified, accumulating material and skills for Kan'ami and Zeami's later elevation of sarugaku into Noh.
  4. 1336–1374Kyoto · KinkiIn the early Muromachi period, Kan'ami and Zeami introduced the aesthetic of yūgen and standardized forms based on sarugaku, which gradually evolved into a warrior-class performing arts system centered on Noh.

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