By Giggles Anderson
There is nothing more satisfying than Japanese theatre. Performed by a cast of men, the stories are fascinating and full of action. The costumes are complicated and intricately designed. The actors and the stage are one in the same. Watching Kabuki is like watching a movie. Not surprisingly, Momiji Gari was the performance chosen for Japan's first full-length narrative film.
Momiji Gari, which means maple trees in English, is a play about so much more. It explores the role of a Japanese officer, courtships between members of Japan's higher class, and illustrates the way in which opposite sexes communicate. The courtship between the high-ranking Officer and the Princess is displayed through the crafty communications of her servants and his men. The interaction between each character is very formal, very respectful, yet seductive.
A pleasure for viewers of all ages and cultures, this play explores many social themes in a way that provokes discussion and thought, but does not openly force the viewer to choose one interpretation over another. The pair do not spend any time alone nor do they do touch each other in a sexually charged manner. Their associates, however, serve liquor, communicate openly, and lay the groundwork as to what is to come from the courtship.
In order to encourage the courtship, the servants dance, as requested. The musicians blend into the background like musical shrubs under a large tree. The music and the actors become one. The difficult choreography is well rehearsed. Each movement is precise and could be viewed as a snapshot, if frozen. At times, it is difficult to believe that a cast of men in heavy makeup, heavier clothing, and neatly heeled shoes could move so gracefully. Soon, the Officer and his men fall asleep as the Princess nears the end of her seductive dance. Disappointed, she leaves with her entourage in tow. A messenger appears in an attempt to wake them before danger arrives, but despite his best efforts, the trio continues to sleep. Later, the trio awaken on their own and they are convinced that the princess is a demon! The Officer, a hero at heart, decides he must fight the demon with his sword. His underlings, aware that fighting is the role of a hero, run off in the other direction.
The Demon and the Officer find each other and each begins to circle his opponent. The Demon is adorned with a long thick mane of hair and is cloaked in an immaculately spotted costume. A beautiful fight ensues as both characters dance for their lives. Eventually, it is the Demon who retreats as the peace is restored.
In the end, we are taught many lessons. The seasons come and they go. Love is won and sometimes lost. It is better to let your friends speak. If one falls asleep as while a princess is dancing, a demon may appear. Heroes must fight, even if abandoned. It may be better to chase away what one need not kill. No matter the choice, the maple trees will tell the tale.
