Presented by Katsura Sunshine, well-known traditional Japanese rakugo artist from Canada

Rakugo storytelling is a 400-year-old Japanese comedic art form. Dating back to the 17th century and originating from Buddhist tradition, rakugo experienced its heyday in the Meiji era (1868-1912) when it adopted its current form and left the streets and private apartments for performance venues. The storyteller, rakugoka, alone on stage, kneels on a cushion and does not move from this position throughout the performance. With no backdrop or music, the rakugo artist uses only his facial expressions, changes in intonation and props to bring humourous stories to life

Katsura Sunshine studied this traditional and unique form of verbal entertainment in Japan as an apprentice to rakugo master Katsura Bunshi VI, then Katsura Sanshi for another three years. He is the only the second Westerner to become a rakugo master in Japan’s history.

(Collaboration: The Japan Foundation, New Delhi)