Waseda theater research and education

Waseda University has a long, multifaceted tradition of theater research that traces its roots to author, critic, playwright, translator, editor, and professor Tsubouchi Shoyo (1859-1935).

In this article, Professor Itsuki Umeyama of Waseda’s Tsubouchi Memorial Theatre Museum shares her thoughts on theater research and education.

Thinking about the “excess” of underground theater with today’s students

Professor Itsuki Umeyama
Tsubouchi Memorial Theatre Museum

My area of expertise is in first wave small theater of the 1960s, otherwise known as underground theater. Although I never saw a performance myself as this movement was before my time, I was fascinated the moment I saw a poster at the Black Tent Theatre as a student. This was one of the reasons I began my research. Small theater of the 1960s attracted experimental and radical individuals and gave birth to legendary productions. Posters and artwork were done by prominent Japanese artists such as Tadanori Yokoo, Kiyoshi Awazu, and Akira Uno. These posters were more than advertisements. For those involved in these theatrical productions, the posters were donned like flags and to this day communicate the sentiments of the times. Within theatrical troupes were groups who excelled at media strategy. Part of my research is analyzing the criticisms and plays of these groups.

If I were to sum up underground theater in one word, it would be “excess.” There was incredible, sweltering power in its expressions and actions. I create opportunities in class for students to think about why theater of this time questioned society to the extent that it did.

Enpaku Book
Detailing the activities of the Memorial Theatre Museum

As an assistant professor of the Memorial Theatre Museum, I utilize Waseda’s cultural facilities in hopes of enhancing the performance abilities of Waseda and its theater research. By combining both research and actual practice with the Dramakan Theater, I believe we can create an ideal environment for producing balanced individuals of theater. I want to create projects that attract individuals from in and outside of campus who love theater and wish to stir up its world.

Memorial Theatre Museum exhibition featuring half a century of Japanese theater (From 2001) (Courtesy of Yasushi Shikano)