On the Shaking Stage: Mari Tanaka and the Theatrical Revolution of the 1970s

On the Shaking Stage: Mari Tanaka and the Theatrical Revolution of the 1970s
In the theater world of the 1970s, Mari Tanaka challenged expression that transcended the boundaries between the audience and the stage. At the time, the shingeki movement and underground theater were flourishing, and Shuji Terayama and Juro Karo were developing experimental stages. Tanaka emphasized the importance of a sense of oneness with the audience and "fighting against oneself," and used the stage as a place for self-expression and social conflict. During this period, women were making inroads into society, and he, along with actors such as Shinobu Otake, presented a new sense of values. Tanaka's innovative stance showed that theater was not merely entertainment, but had the power to connect individuals and society.