Rare Backstage Shots of Kabuki Revealed for the First Time

Kabuki actor Kichiemon Nakamura and GUCCI co-hosted a charity gala, "A Night to Support Children in Tohoku," to aid children affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. The event raised approximately 40 million yen in one night, with the entire amount donated to the Japan National Federation of UNESCO Associations' "Children's Support for the Great East Japan Earthquake, UNESCO Association Scholarship for Schooling." Additionally, a limited edition "Bamboo Bag" was released, made with "Sendai Hira," a traditional silk weave dating back to the Edo period, which Kichiemon Nakamura also favors for his hakama. The full proceeds from its sale were donated to support industrial recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake, demonstrating their collaborative efforts in preserving Japanese traditional culture and supporting children who will carry the future.

This exhibition was realized through the shared belief of Kichiemon Nakamura and GUCCI in "valuing tradition and wishing to pass on its splendor to the future." SONORAMENTE is an Italian word meaning "resoundingly." The works by photographer Nariyasu Nabeshima, who captured the profound depth of the cultivated artistry of Living National Treasure Kichiemon Nakamura, are filled with a power that makes one feel as if they can hear the resounding lines of dialogue.



The venue displays large-format photographs, larger than life-size, and works capturing the most dramatic moments from his performances, drawing the viewer in. Furthermore, the exhibition includes rare shots of his preparation in the dressing room and backstage moments, as well as collaborative works where Kichiemon Nakamura, who also enjoys painting as a hobby, has added brushstrokes to his own photographs. All works are original prints made on handmade "Ise Washi" paper, produced by Taiho Washi Kogyo, which also crafts paper for Ise Jingu Shrine. The calligraphy for the exhibition title was created by calligrapher Shishu.

Additionally, the venue features costumes from Kichiemon Nakamura's signature roles and special bags created through GUCCI's initiatives supporting Japanese traditional culture.

Kichiemon Nakamura Photography Exhibition - SONORAMENTE
Period | Until September 15 (Monday)
Opening Hours | 11:00–20:00
Venue | GUCCI Ginza 7F
4-4-10 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

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