What tools are used in Rakugo?folding fanand tenugui, and tools specific to Kamigata Rakugo

Rakugo is a traditional Japanese performing art in which storytellers entertain their audiences with satire and humor. The charm of rakugo lies not only in its skillful storytelling, but also in its use of unique tools. In this issue, we will introduce some of the tools used in rakugo to make it easier for rakugo beginners to understand. We will also touch on the props used in Kamigata Rakugo, so if you are interested in learning more about the world of Rakugo, please take a look at this article.

Props Used in Rakugo

The props used by rakugo performers are simple, but they are used to great effect thanks to the performers’ skillful storytelling and techniques. Here, we’ll introduce some of the most common props used in rakugo.

folding fan

folding fan is a prop frequently used by rakugo storytellers when performing their tales. In the world of rakugo, it is sometimes referred to as “kaze.” folding fan of folding fan used in rakugo is primarily known as folding fan “kokza-sen,” which differs from folding fan commonly used in everyday life.They are characterized by their larger size and sturdier construction compared to summer fans. Plain white fans are primarily used; folding fan with patterns, colors, or flashy designs are never used.

Tenugui

Tenugui are not only used as props in rakugo performances but are also used by rakugo performers to wipe away sweat. Among rakugo performers, they are called “mandara” and are one of the essential tools used to symbolize various objects.In addition, rakugo performers often create their own original tenugui, which they sometimes distribute in place of business cards upon being promoted to the rank of shin’uchi. With colors and designs that reflect each performer’s unique personality, these tenugui are also popular collectibles among rakugo enthusiasts.

The Use of Props in Rakugo

Props in rakugo are sometimes used to represent other objects within a story. By alternating between folding fan and a tenugui during a performance, a rakugo artist can effectively clarify the situation or distinguish between different characters. Here, we’ll introduce how folding fan and tenugui are used in rakugo.

How to Use folding fan

folding fan is used to represent objects such as a kiseru (tobacco pipe), chopsticks, a boat’s oar or mast, a fishing rod, a sword or spear, an umbrella, and a sake flask. For example, when used as a kiseru, the performer can portray different characters simply by varying the way they inhale.A samurai would hold it with his chest puffed out, while a commoner would hold it as if pinching it—allowing for clear and easily understandable portrayals of character. Depending on the rakugo storyteller’s interpretation, it can be likened to a wide variety of objects, making it truly versatile. Since each storyteller has their own distinctive way of using it, paying close attention to these nuances can offer a whole new way to enjoy the performance.

How to Use a Tenugui

Tenugui are often used to represent objects such as books, letters, cigarette cases, and wallets. When folded lengthwise, a tenugui can be used as a wallet, or held open with both hands to depict the act of reading a book.They are also sometimes used in combination with folding fan folding folding fan: for example, by unfolding a folded tenugui and using the folding fan—held like a brush—to depict the act of writing a letter with a light, flowing stroke. Furthermore, tenugui are often used for practical purposes, such as wiping away sweat.

Props Unique to Kamigata Rakugo

While not used in the Kanto region, where Edo rakugo is performed, Kamigata rakugo in the Kansai region employs unique props in addition to folding fan and tenugui. This is said to be a remnant of Kamigata rakugo’s origins as an outdoor street performance, where these props were used to make noise and attract the attention of passersby. Here, we’ll introduce some of the props unique to Kamigata rakugo.

Display Stand (Kendai)

A “mitai” is a small stand used to hold and view books. There are no specific rules regarding its dimensions, and it has a simple structure consisting of a tabletop attached to board-like legs. In Kamigata rakugo, it is used to produce sounds by striking it with a folding fan or clappers, or to represent objects such as a writing desk, a bathtub, a futon, or the floor.Since Kamigata rakugo was performed outdoors at events like festivals, where large crowds gathered, performers needed to find ways to capture people’s attention. It is said that they would make loud, banging noises to stop passersby in their tracks and draw them in to listen.

Knee Cover

A “knee screen” is a small partition placed in front of the rakugo stage. It is wider than the stage itself so that it can conceal areas the performer does not wish to reveal.Its height is set so that the top of the rakugo table is visible; this is to allow the audience to see the rakugo performer’s gestures on the table. Since rakugo is a performance art that involves the entire body, the screen is made slightly lower so that the audience can see the performer’s hands.

Kobyo-shi

As the name suggests, “kobachi” refers to small clappers. They are typically used in pairs—one clapper struck against the stage platform—to produce a sound when the scene changes during a rakugo performance or when the performer wants to shift the atmosphere of the moment.As explained in the section on the “mitai,” since Kamigata rakugo is performed outdoors, it was necessary to make loud noises to attract the attention of passersby.Since the storyteller had to speak louder than the sound of the kobachi, it is said that this also served as vocal training for the rakugo performers. In any case, to make the performance lively and eye-catching, various creative measures were employed, such as occasionally using instruments like the shamisen, flute, and taiko drum.

Let’s also take a look at the props that play an important role in rakugo performances.

We’ve introduced the roles and significance of props used in rakugo, such as folding fan and tenugui towels. These props play a vital role in bringing the rakugo performer’s acting and the scenes of the story to life, adding a sense of realism. Furthermore, Kamigata rakugo employs unique props not found in Edo rakugo, each contributing to the distinct traditions of their respective styles.The artisans and merchants involved in the production and sale of these props also play a vital role in supporting the traditional art form of rakugo. If you’ve recently become interested in rakugo, be sure to pay attention to the props and how they’re used. Through these props, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the art form and experience even greater emotional resonance.

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[Personalisation only]Koza Sen Rakugofolding fan
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[Personalisation only]Koza Sen Rakugofolding fan
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Used by rakugo storytellers at Yose and other venues.Koza-fan（Koza fan(Japanese). It can be used for men's kouta (short songs) and calligraphy. 8" 18 ken, white bamboo, boxed #folding fanWith box #folding fan #Rakugo #Shigin #Nagauta #Dance #Senzu #Dancefolding fan Read More