Noh Stage in the Forest

Abstract

Noh performance, Japan’s ancient form of theater, was first established in the sixteenth century. The town of Toyoma in Miyagi Prefecture is known for its unique style of Noh performance, called Toyoma Noh, which originated during the Edo era (1600–1868). Kuma’s Noh stage was designed for performing Noh in a forest surrounding Toyoma. The fundamental concept of the project was to both liberate the stage from and integrate it with the wooded environment. Arranged across a small courtyard, the light and largely open wooden structures are immersed in nature while staking out a distinct place in the outskirts of this rural community.