When does the performance take place?

The performance takes place on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 7:00 to 9:30 PM.

Where will The Aesthetics of Stillness be performed?

The event takes place at Cuvilliés-Theater, Residenzstraße 1, 80333 Munich.

What works are on the program?

Nonomiya in the second act, the Kyōgen Ne-ongyoku, and the Nō work Aoi no Ue will be shown.

In which language will it be performed?

The performance will be in Japanese and will be supplemented by German and English surtitles.

How long does the theater evening last?

The event is scheduled from 7:00 to 9:30 PM.

Is the Cuvilliés-Theater accessible for people with disabilities?

Cuvilliés-Theater has ground-level access, an accessible restroom, two wheelchair spaces in the auditorium, and an induction loop.

Noh at Cuvilliés-Theater Munich 2026

Name: The Aesthetics of Stillness: Noh at Cuvilliés-Theater
Start: 2026-11-07T19:00:00+01:00
End: 2026-11-07T21:30:00+01:00
Location: Cuvilliés-Theater

The Beauty of Stillness: Japanese Nō Theatre at Cuvilliés-Theater

On November 7, 2026, the stage at Munich's Cuvilliés-Theater will open for classical Japanese Nō, bringing together two extraordinary theatrical traditions: the centuries-old stage art from Kyoto and the splendid Rococo room of the Munich Residence. The Aesthetics of Stillness takes the audience into a world of concentrated movement, precious masks, expressive costumes, and an almost physically tangible theater atmosphere.

Between Mask, Music, and Inner Movement

The Nō theatre thrives on reduction. A slow step, a minimal turn of the body, or the lifting of a mask transforms the stage into a resonant space for memory, desire, and loss. The staging combines precise acting with singing, instrumental music, and a dramaturgy in which silence appears as meaningful as the spoken word.

Rokujō's Shadow from the Genji Monogatari

At the center of the evening are two Nō pieces based on consecutive chapters of the Japanese literary classic Genji Monogatari. Nonomiya will be shown in the second, particularly intense act. This is followed by a full performance of Aoi no Ue. Both pieces tell the story of Lady Rokujō and delve deep into the emotional abyss of a character oscillating between love, jealousy, and supernatural transformation.

A Kyōgen Moment Brings Cheerful Contrasts

With Ne-ongyoku by Tadashi Ogasawara, a Kyōgen play complements the evening. This traditionally comedic form provides a lively counterpoint to the contemplative rigor of Nō and opens a surprising space for rhythm, wit, and physical presence within the program.

Four Centuries of Stage Art in a Historical Space

The stage design results from the connection between Nō aesthetics and Cuvilliés-Theater. Golden ornaments, red boxes, and the historical ambiance of the residence meet the concentrated imagery of Japanese masks and garments. German and English surtitles accompany the Japanese-language performance. The event begins at 7:00 PM and is expected to end around 9:30 PM.

Participants and Artistic Direction

The program features Nonomiya with Kuroemon Katayama, the Kyōgen Ne-ongyoku with Tadashi Ogasawara, and Aoi no Ue with Michiharu Wakebayashi. The performance is organized by the Noh in Europe Executive Committee and presented in collaboration with the German-Japanese Society in Bavaria. An introduction or explanation is provided by Andreas Regelsberger from the University of Trier.

An Evening for Curious Theater Lovers

The Aesthetics of Stillness promises not an ordinary stage experience but a precisely composed encounter with a vibrant theater form. Those who engage with the slow pace, intense acoustics, and ritualized acting will experience an audience response that grows from focused attention and lasting fascination. This Nō theatre at Cuvilliés-Theater makes visible how directly a centuries-old performance can still resonate today.

Conclusion: An exquisite Munich theater evening awaits the audience: Japanese Nō, Kyōgen, historical masks, and extraordinary architecture combine for a sensual cultural experience. Secure your tickets in good time and experience the quiet power of this stage art live.