Air date: 2018-04-04

Runtime: 28 min

This time Kataoka Ainosuke takes his first turn as our host. Ainosuke is a renowned kabuki actor. He'll be our guide to the attractions of kabuki looking at some of the roles he's played.

Air date: 2018-05-02

Runtime: 28 min

Explore the fascinating conventions and traditions of kabuki. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explains the origins and meanings of kabuki's unique make-up, its onnagata techniques, and stage machinery.

Air date: 2018-06-06

Runtime: 28 min

Explore the different types of romantic hero who appear in kabuki. From sweet, comic charmers to brooding bad boys, actor Kataoka Ainosuke explains these heroic archetypes.

Air date: 2018-07-04

Runtime: 28 min

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores "The Battles of Coxinga" by Chikamatsu Monzemon. It's an epic tale with a Sino-Japanese hero taking up arms in China for the family his father once served.

Air date: 2018-09-05

Runtime: 28 min

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores the sometimes tragic and occasionally comical relationships between married couples in kabuki. Explore these dramatic tales of fidelity and romance.

Air date: 2018-10-03

Runtime: 28 min

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke reveals the wide variety of props used by tachiyaku, the male roles in kabuki. Explore the all-important katana sword, tobacco pipes, footwear and gold coins.

Air date: 2018-11-07

Runtime: 28 min

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores two acts from this gidayu kyogen play. It's a fantastical, dramatic, and deeply moving piece of theater.

Air date: 2019-01-02

Runtime: 28 min

How do the cast and crew prepare for a kabuki performance? Actor Kataoka Ainosuke guides us through the rehearsals and technical complexities of a recent nationwide tour.

Air date: 2019-02-06

Runtime: 28 min

Kabuki is full of music played both on- and off-stage. Actor Kataoka Ainosuke and musician Kawase Roshu guide us through the beautiful complexities of sankyoku.

Air date: 2019-03-06

Runtime: 28 min

Dance is an integral part of kabuki, showcasing personality and inner emotion, as well as skill. Explore this mesmerizing facet of kabuki with actor Kataoka Ainosuke.