2026 Immersia: ANU ZA Kabuki Open Rehearsal

Step into the vibrant world of Kabuki, Japan’s celebrated theatrical tradition. Experience its bold performances, uncover the artistry behind the curtain, and connect with the stories and heritage that have captivated audiences for centuries.

The ANU School of Culture, History & Language is delighted to set the stage for this year’s Immersia festival with the celebrated ANU Za Kabuki Club. You’re invited to an exclusive open rehearsal — a rare chance to see the drama unfold before the curtain officially rises. Step into the spotlight of Kabuki, Japan’s iconic theatre art, where elaborate costumes, stylised movement, and expressive acting steal the show. Watch the cast bring centuries-old stories to life, peek behind the scenes, and take part in an experience that’s equal parts performance and cultural revelation.

About ZA KABUKI

The oldest Kabuki troupe in the Southern Hemisphere, ANU ZA KABUKI performs traditional Japanese theatre to an Australian audience. 

The club was formed in 1976 by teachers in the ANU Japan Centre, including Mr Shun Ikeda, who still plays a vital role in the club today. Starting out as a modern Japanese theatre group, the club’s aim was always to both introduce some unfamiliar aspects of Japanese culture to students, and to give students a medium through which they could practice and improve their Japanese outside of the classroom.

In 1999, the club had its first performances outside of Australia, visiting Japan and performing in Kobe and Nara. In 2016, the club once again ventured overseas to do three performances in the Tohoku region of Japan, including in areas heavily affected by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

Their style of kabuki is very different from traditional kabuki found in Japanese theatres. Their long history has allowed us to develop their own unique style which includes cross-dressing, modern jokes, dancing, pop music and many other uniquely Australian features.

Although the club's performances contain many non-traditional aspects, we use traditional scripts, enabling students to explore the old Japanese language and traverse into unfamiliar areas of their language studies. They also make use of projection technology to provide English ‘subtitles’ so that the audience can better understand the dialogue.

Please note: If you require accessibility accommodations or a visitor Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan please contact the event organisers. 

This event may be photographed and recorded. The recorded material may be used to promote future ANU events and programs. By attending the event you are giving us informed consent. If you DO NOT wish to be recorded, please let ANU event staff know on the day. We will be mindful and ensure not to photograph any faces of children present.