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Kabukimono

Kabukimono is a multi-faceted exploration of Kabuki theatre's magnificent history and artistry. Through performance, poetry, costume, cocktails, music, and the visual language of Japanese woodblock prints, the project brings Kabuki's essence to life. Kabukimono premiered in 2019 at the iconic Ladbroke Hall, featuring actor-dancer Suleiman Suleiman and shamisen musician Hibiki Ichikawa. Subsequent performances have been held at the Royal Over-Seas House in St James's.

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Kabukimono III: The Picture Book
Saturday, 19th March 2022

Kabukimono III coincided with the UK's first major Kyōsai exhibition in nearly 30 years, celebrating the artist's dynamic style. This performance featured the premiere of The Picture Book, a new play by Suleiman Suleiman inspired by Kyōsai's work, at Over-Seas House on March 19th, 2022. Shamisen musician Hibiki Ichikawa accompanied the performance. Guests enjoyed the performance, drinks, and a Q&A exploring the connections between Kyōsai, Ukiyo-e, and Kabuki.

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Kabukimono II: Kabuki on the Flower Path
Tuesday, 16th July 2024

Suleiman Suleiman presented Kabukimono II at Over-Seas House on October 2nd, 2021. The event featured the premiere of Kabuki on the Flower Path, a play exploring Kabuki's influence on artists from David Bowie to Yukio Mishima. The performance took the audience on a journey through four seasons and cities – Paris, London, Tokyo, and Kyoto. Guests enjoyed the performance, drinks, a Kabuki Q&A, and music until 11 pm.

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Kabukimono I: The Pearl Diver
Wednesday, 18th December 2019

Kabukimono offered a unique immersive experience into the world of Kabuki theatre at its premiere on 18th December 2019, at Ladbroke Hall. The event featured The Pearl Diver, a play by Suleiman Suleiman, accompanied by shamisen music. Guests enjoyed a bespoke Kabuki cocktail, the performance, and could peruse Kabuki prints while listening to ambient music. The event aimed to recreate the "gesamtkunstwerk" of a Kabuki performance, including the backstage atmosphere.

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