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Noh is an ancient classical form of Japanese theatre, which dates back to the 14th century. Noh combines elements of dance, drama, music and poetry in a way of elegance, beauty and symbolism.

Popularity
Today, like many of the worlds ancient classical performance forms, Noh cannot be described as a popular art, Yet its supporters are very enthusiastic. There are thought to be approximately 1,500 professional performers, performing and teaching Noh.

Location
Noh is at the present time enjoying somewhat of a revival in popularity and although predominantly a Japanese activity, amateur Noh theatre schools and troupes can be found in many countries around the world, including Great Britain.

Age
Actors can begin their training as young children, traditionally from the age of three years.

Ability
Becoming a Noh actor is not something to be taken up lightly or casually as Noh actors are strictly trained in the traditions of Noh, as the society of Noh, strictly protects the traditions passed down from their ancestors.

Description
Noh performances are performed on a polished wooden stage, open on three sides, with a narrow bridge leading onto the stage from the left hand side, by which the principle actors enter. The only decoration to the stage, is the painting of a lone Pine tree to the rear of the stage. Actors costumes are richly adorned and seeped in tradition. Actors often wear masks, The only prop used is a fan, which is used to symbolize many things.

Dedication
By tradition, Noh actors and musicians rarely rehearse for performances together. Instead, each actor, musician, and choral chanter practices his or her fundamental movements, songs, and dances independently. Thus, the structure of any given performance is not dominated by any single performer, but by the established interactions of all of the performers together.

Cost
The cost of becoming a Noh actor can be expensive, as Noh training is long and exacting, there are no short-cuts.

Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.

Energy

Arms

Legs

Sight

Hearing

Speech

Learning

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