INTRODUCTION
Bunraku is the traditional puppet theatre of Japan, created in the Tokugawa period. It is the combination of joruri (the chanting of dramatic text) and puppetry. Puppets are 1/2 to 2/3 life size and have no strings. Rather, they are operated by 3 puppeteers. The elaborate and unique puppet heads have movable eyelids, mouths, and other facial features. They are given a voice by a single tayu, or chanter. The play is accompanied by the shamisen, a low, strong-sounding instrument that sets the pace and timing. Bunraku is largely a visual spectacle, and was able to compete with kabuki theatre in the Tokugawa period. Bunraku is unique to Japan and a true historical treasure!
Image from https://prezi.com/iz0_v19lzogk/japanese-style-puppeteering/
Image from https://prezi.com/iz0_v19lzogk/japanese-style-puppeteering/