In rakugo, an entertainment that became popular with the common people in the 17th century, a single performer sits on a cushion on stage to tell a humorous story. This takes the form of a conversation, with the performer changing their tone and gesture for its different characters, using only a folding fan and a simple cotton cloth as props. Many of the old tales are still popular today, and rakugo is gaining fans around the world. We see one performed by a professor who studies humor and performs rakugo in English. The enthusiastic reception she has received in many countries proves that the power of laughter knows no boundaries.
VIDEO BY MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF JAPAN