Welcome to the World of Yugen
Theatre of Yugen is an innovative theatre producer and presenter with a trained ensemble that is rooted in Noh drama and Kyogen comedy, the oldest continuous theatrical traditions of Japan. We create and offer intercultural theatrical experiences that engage and inspire diverse peoples in the San Francisco Bay Area and the world.
Theatre of Yugen is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that depends on support from individuals and the community.
Please support us today by giving a tax-deductible donation.
Next Up
Saturday, April 20, 1:30PM
Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival
We will perform a classical Kyogen in English at Sakura Matsuri 2024! Come enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms in San Francisco’s Japantown and our performance on Saturday, April 20, at 1:30pm.
This year, we are performing at one of the festival’s indoor venues, Issei Memorial Hall (1840 Sutter Street, San Francisco Japantown).
For more information, please visit: https://sfcherryblossom.org
Friday, April 26, 6:30PM - SOLD OUT
650 year-old Traditional Comedy “Kyogen” in English
Japan Society of Northern California & Theatre of Yugen
Join us for a very special evening co-hosted with the Japan Society of Northern California!
Following a short Kyogen Dance or Komai, we will be showcasing one of our favorite Kyogen plays, Boshibari (Tied to a Pole).
There will be a post-show fireside talk moderated by Michi Kaifu of JSNC and featuring our veteran ensemble members. They will share their personal backgrounds and experiences in the traditional Japanese performing arts.
After the conversation, join us for refreshments for more information chats with the artists and networking!
Saturday, April 27, 12noon
Basic Noh & Kyogen Training Program Student Recital
Please email to attend: info@theatreofyugen.org
As the culmination of this Spring’s 10-week program, the students will perform short dance pieces from Kyogen and Noh.
@ NOHSpace (2840 Mariposa Street, SF)
Instructor: Lluís Valls
In our 10-week introductory level program (classes on every Thursday and Saturday), we teach the foundational principles of Noh and Kyogen song and dance. Each lesson covers vocal training, basic motion and posture, and bodily expression unique to this traditional art. Every week, classic songs and dances are introduced and practiced.
The Fall 2024 program will be for returning students only.
Sign-up for the Fall 2024/Inquiry: info@theatreofyugen.org
Scholarship for working actors and theatre major students available!
Yugen no Kai Spring 2024
Friday, May 10, 7pm
Saturday, May 11, 5pm
Sunday, May 12, 2pm
We welcome you back to our seasonal performances of classical Japanese Kyogen plays in English at NOHSpace! For this Spring, we are excited to present Kusabira (Mushrooms) and Busu (Sweet Poison), performed by our wonderful ensemble members!
Directed by Lluís Valls
Featuring Anqi Cao, Nick Ishimaru, Meryn MacDougall, Ryan Marchand, Fenner Merlick, Kate Patrick, Lluís Valls, and Tiger Zhou
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In Solidarity with Black Lives Matter
As an organization rooted in and representative of historically marginalized communities, Theatre of Yugen stands in solidarity with the Black community’s struggle for justice. We pledge to continue our commitment to diversity and inclusivity, and to fight racism and injustice against people of color.
Ways to Take Action
Here are some of the resources through which we can educate ourselves, make a donation, and take a step toward making a difference.
NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People)
People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond
List of Anti-Racism Resources (Theatre Bay Area)
List of State-by-State Resources Against Police Brutality (RollingStone)
Support Us
Theatre of Yugen is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that depends on support from individuals and the community.
Please support us today by giving a tax-deductible donation.