A Prayer for Success: Ichikawa Danjuro XII and Nakamura Kanzaburo XVIII at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine for “Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami”
Kyoto, Japan – September 1, 2025 – The prestigious Kabuki theater community recently gathered at the revered Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto for a significant prayer ceremony. Renowned actors Ichikawa Danjuro XII and Nakamura Kanzaburo XVIII led the solemn occasion, offering prayers for the successful staging of the upcoming Kabuki play, “Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami” (The Sage’s Scroll of Calligraphy).
The event, held on September 1, 2025, marked a poignant moment for the production, seeking divine blessings for its performers, crew, and the artistic endeavor as a whole. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of scholarship and learning, Sugawara no Michizane, holds particular significance for a play that centers on the life and tribulations of this historical figure.
Ichikawa Danjuro XII, a celebrated Kabuki actor known for his commanding stage presence and deep understanding of traditional roles, and Nakamura Kanzaburo XVIII, equally esteemed for his artistry and dedication to preserving Kabuki’s heritage, participated in the ritual with profound reverence. Their presence underscored the importance of this particular production and their personal commitment to its excellence.
“Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami” is a classic Kabuki masterpiece, revered for its complex narrative, compelling characters, and dramatic intensity. The play delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, justice, and the profound impact of education and mentorship. The chosen venue for the prayer ceremony, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, provided a fitting and spiritually charged atmosphere for invoking blessings upon such a significant work.
The ceremony involved traditional Shinto rituals, emphasizing purity and respect. The actors, adorned in formal attire, offered prayers and symbolic gestures, a time-honored practice to ensure smooth operations, inspired performances, and the positive reception of the play by audiences. The serene surroundings of the shrine offered a moment of quiet reflection and spiritual grounding amidst the demanding preparations of a major theatrical production.
This auspicious gathering at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine serves as a testament to the enduring cultural significance of Kabuki theater and the deep respect its practitioners hold for tradition and spiritual guidance. The successful completion of this prayer ceremony undoubtedly sets a positive and hopeful tone for the upcoming performances of “Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami,” anticipating a production that will captivate and move audiences with its timeless story and exceptional artistry.
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