KANJINCHO, The Subscription List, by Namiki Gohei, Adapted by Gavin Bantock Oriental Adaptations for the Stage, Vol. 2

KANJINCHO, The Subscription List, by Namiki Gohei, Adapted by Gavin Bantock:
Oriental Adaptations for the Stage, Vol. 2

One of Kabuki's most famous masterpieces, in two separate editions - the first a short version based closely on the Japanese original, and the second an expanded version completely re-set in Italy in what might be termed 'Shakespearean' style (renaming the characters and relocating the action).

A drama of gripping suspense in which the loyal retainer Benkei, a former priest, uses his deep knowledge of Buddhism to enable his master Yoshitsune to outwit the border warden Togashi Saemon and cross the barrier at Ataka in north-west Japan and escape from his vengeful elder brother the Shogun Yoritomo.

In the second version, the priest Benedict uses his understanding of Christian lore to get the better of the frontier warden Simon Goldenoak to enable his master Lord Justinian to cross the frontier from Italy into France and escape from his elder brother Juliano, the Duke of Naples

An excruciating dilemma: the only way to save his master is to beat him unmercifully almost to death - an unforgivable breach of the strict social order.

An amazing example of absolute loyalty and respect - so profound that even the enemy is deeply moved and filled with admiration.

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