ZANGIKU MONOGATARI

A sorrowful tale of a Kabuki actor, based on Shofu Muramatsu’s novel, which was in turn inspired by a true story. Kikunosuke, the adopted son of Kikugoro, is kept in the dark regarding his lack of talent as a performer, and uncertainty leads him to drink. Servant Otoku grows concerned for Kikunosuke’s wellbeing. The two fall in love but Kikunosuke’s parents denounce their relationship, and Otoku is sent back to her hometown. Kikunosuke heads to Osaka to be with her and finally becomes a recognised actor. Later, he successfully returns to Kikugoro’s troupe, and on the day that he participates in an actors’ boat parade on the River, he learns that Otoku has been struck down by illness, and speeds to her side.