mawaributai

Mawaributai is a rotating stage used in Japanese theater, particularly in Kabuki and Noh. Its invention is often attributed to Takeda Izumo II in the 18th century for use in the Chikamatsu Monzaemon play "Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura." The stage itself is a large disc that can be spun around, allowing actors to enter and exit scenes seamlessly or to change the setting of a play without a complete blackout or curtain drop.

The mechanism of a mawaributai typically involves a central pivot and a circular track or substructure that supports the rotating platform. This allows for smooth and controlled movement during a performance. The rotation can be driven by stagehands from beneath the stage, or in more modern productions, by mechanical means. The ability to reveal or conceal different set pieces or characters as the stage turns adds a dynamic visual element to the theatrical experience.

Mawaributai is not just a functional element but also a key part of the dramatic presentation in traditional Japanese theater. It can be used to create surprise, to represent the passage of time, or to depict the movement of characters between different locations. Its presence significantly contributes to the visual storytelling and the overall pacing of a performance.