Twitter • Instagram • LinkedIn • Threads • Facebook • Published 5/30/2024

Dr. Julie Iezzi, a CJS Faculty member and Professor of Theatre, skillfully directed a remarkable cast and crew, including several CJS graduate students, in a stellar production of The Maiden Benten and the Bandits of the White Waves at UH Mānoa’s Kennedy Theatre in April 2024. Also known as Benten Kozo, this popular play, even featured in a Japan Times article, was performed in English in Mānoa, marking the 100-year anniversary of English-language kabuki productions in the U.S., a unique tradition that began at UH Mānoa in 1924! This production was brought to life through the hard work and support of many, including mentorship from Kabuki Masters Ichikawa Monnosuke VIII and Ichikawa Komazo XI. Dr. Iezzi and the troupe are now set to showcase their talents in Japan with two sold-out shows: June 1 at Gifu Bunka Plaza Seiryu-za in Gifu, and June 2 at Aioi-za in Mizunami, Japan. Read more about it in the UH Mānoa News story: UH Mānoa Kabuki: Japan bound!

Photos

Here are some performance photos from the April 2024 production of The Maiden Benten and the Bandits of the White Waves, showcasing the hard work and talent of the cast and crew. All photos courtesy of Josh Barnes.

Scene 1: The Hamamatsu-ya Dry Goods Shop

The Hamamatsu-ya Dry Goods Shop employees showcasing their wares

A wideshot of the Hamamatsu-ya Dry Goods Shop scene

Scene 2: An Inner Room of the Hamamatsu-ya

Members of the Bandits of the White Waves, still in disguise, giving the Hamamatsu-ya Dry Goods Shop owners a hard time

The Hamamatsu-ya Dry Goods Shop owners meet face-to-face, still unbeknownst to them, with infamous Nippon Daemon, leader of the Bandits of the White Waves

Scene 3: Along the Inase River

The showdown between the police and the Bandits of the White Waves

The Bantis of the White Waves emerge triumphant