Tamasaburo Bando V

Tamasaburo Bando V has devoted his life to perfecting the art ofonnagata (Kabuki female roles) and has become one of the world's most acclaimed Kabuki artists. In June 2011, Bando was chosen by the Inamori Foundation to receive the 27th Annual Kyoto Prize for Lifetime Achievement in Arts and Philosophy. Over the course of his career, Bando has created his own unique world in traditional Kabuki theater, and has contributed to many other genres of performing arts.

Bando's acclaimed performances have included the role of Princess Shiranui in the Kabuki drama, Chinsetsu Yumiharizuki (“The Moon Like a Drawn Bow”) and Sagi Musume (“The Heron Maiden”). His unprecedented ability to transform himself into character leaves audiences mesmerized.