Noh is a major form of classic Japanese musical drama that has been performed since the 14th century. This title introduces the work of the Noh mask artist Michishige Udaka. It presents photographs of 32 typical Noh masks shot in dynamic lightings and close-up angles. It features captions that explain characters of each mask. Noh is a major form of classic Japanese musical drama that has been performed since the 14th century. Many characters are masked, with men playing both the male and female roles. The repertoire is normally limited to a specific set of historical

Author Biography

MICHISHIGE UDAKA is, arguably, today's most prominent Noh actor, as well as a mask maker, playwright and teacher. In 1984, he founded the International Noh Institute and the following year, he produced, directed and performed in the U.S. as part of the U.S./Japan Cultural Exchange Group. In 2011, he plans to return to the U.S. to perform his new work, "Atomic Cloud," which promotes world peace. SHUICHI YAMAGATA is an acclaimed advertising photographer.