Kabuki is arguably the most recognizable traditional Japanese theater form, characterized by action-packed performance, lavish costuming, and outrageous subject matter filled with heroic battles, doomed romances, and supernatural entities.
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For centuries Kabuki took pride in staying true to the classical repertoire, but starting in mid-70s, the rising popularity of Manga (graphic novels) and Anime prompted the traditionalist theater troupes to acknowledge that the new arts presented the perfect fodder to be staged in Kabuki style. Extraordinary adaptations of some of the beloved anime titles ensued from Sailor Moon, Naruto, the Gundam series, and Nausicaa to name a few.