SHINPA

SHINPA: translation

Shinpa, also known as shinpa geki, refers to an avant-garde theatrical style originating in the soshi shibai (hooligan shows) that emerged during the Freedom and People’s Rights Movement in the late 19th century. Though the term itself contains the character shin for “new,” the form of shinpa was quite similar to traditional kabuki. Shinpa themes focused on contemporary political or social issues. Kawakami Otojiro, one of the “hooligans,” became one of the foremost shinpa playwrights who helped bring legitimacy to the new dramatic form.

See also MEIJI RESTORATION; MODERN THEATER; THEATER REFORM.