Synopsis

Ningyo joruri, a Japanese performing art with a history spanning four centuries, relies on the collaborative efforts of three individuals to imbue meticulously crafted puppets with astonishing lifelike qualities. American puppeteer Martin Holman is deeply devoted to this tradition. He now directs his own troupe in Tokushima Prefecture, the heartland of Awa ningyo joruri. On this installment of Japanophiles, Peter Barakan delves into the world of ningyo joruri, exploring how Holman is broadening