owarai

Owarai is a Japanese term for comedy entertainment that covers a broad range of performances, including stand-up, sketch comedy, improvisation, and variety segments on television and stage. The word is derived from warai, meaning laughter, with o- forming a general category prefix for the performing arts.

Historically, modern owarai developed in the 20th century, with live theater and radio laying groundwork and television accelerating its popularity after World War II. The Kansai region, especially Osaka, became a center for manzai, a two-person form in which a boke (the funny man) and a tsukkomi (the straight man) engage in rapid-fire exchanges.

Two main formats dominate: manzai, which relies on wordplay, timing, and social miscommunication, and conte, short sketches with recurring characters. Other styles include stand-up routines and gag-based sketches. Television variety shows frequently blend owarai with games, music, and guest appearances, making comedians regulars on everyday entertainment.

Industry and culture: Owarai performers are typically represented by talent agencies that train and manage acts, book television appearances, and organize live performances. The format shapes contemporary Japanese humor and has influenced advertising, popular culture, and online media, while new generations experiment with online platforms and international collaborations.