Hayashiya Kikugumi, the Storyteller: Trajectory of Laughter from the Postwar Showa Era to 2025 (1950s - Present) - 1950s - Present

Hayashiya Kikugumi, the Storyteller: Trajectory of Laughter from the Postwar Showa Era to 2025 (1950s - Present) - 1950s - Present
Hayashiya Kikugusen is a storyteller who has lightly performed rakugo and laughed his way through Japan's postwar period of turmoil, rapid economic growth, the bursting of the bubble economy, and the 2025 era. In his early years, when he was known as Kikuzo, he was popular for his unique timing and natural humor, and his TV program "Laugh Spot" became a national hit. He had a unique background from a stationery store in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, and was a wannabe comic book artist-turned-talent, but his simple and unpretentious style was unique in the world of rakugo. His name change from Kikuzo I to Kikugusen not only marked the transition to his son, but also a milestone in his own artistic career. His style of comedy, which combines the lineage of Edo period comedy with modern nonsense, continues to be loved by people of all ages. His skillful use of food stories and satire on current events, while never forgetting to keep in mind the sensibilities of the common people, has won h
im the sympathy of the audience. In addition to being a rakugo (comic storyteller), he has also been active as a picture book author and lecturer, demonstrating his multifaceted talents. He is truly a rare link between the Showa, Heisei, and 2025 eras.