From the archive
Rakugo experience
The other day, I visited the Shinjuku Suehirotei which is a theater for rakugo, a traditional Japanese verbal entertainment. Though I have seen rakugo on Television before, this was the first time I saw it live on stage. Shinjuku Suehirotei is of the four rakgo jouseki in Tokyo.
Discussion
I've seen some videos of rakugo, but I don't quite understand this art. It is interesting, nonetheless.
As with all comedy, you need some background knowledge of the place and culture to enjoy rakugo fully. But even if you don't have that, it is a good experience to see one.
Ogiri is easier to follow. The performers make jokes about a given theme, and receive more "sitting pillows" (zabuton) if they are good. They get a present when they exceed ten zabutons.