Exclusive Members' Talk – Kabuki Kimono

An Exclusive Talk for Members of the Ashmolean

With Dr Clare Pollard, Curator of Japanese Art
This talk takes place at the Museum and Online

Teas, coffee and cake will be served in the Lecture Theatre from 3pm, when the doors open.

In this talk, Dr Clare Pollard will introduce a group of spectacular costumes belonging to celebrated Japanese kabuki actor, and ‘Living National Treasure’, Bandō Tamasaburō V, which are currently on display in the Ashmolean.

Kabuki is a form of Japanese popular theatre characterised by its dramatic plots and stylized performances. All roles are played by men and Bandō Tamasaburō V is Japan’s leading onnagata, a performer specializing in women’s roles.

The costumes on display reflect the variety of roles Tamasaburō has performed over his long career and give a fascinating insight into a very specialist form of Japanese textile art, in which actor and workshop work in close collaboration.

The free display, Kabuki Kimono: Costumes of Bandō Tamasaburō V, is open in the Ashmolean's Textiles Gallery until 9 Nov 2025.

Tickets are £15 for the in-person event, and £10 for the online event. Tickets are only available to Members of the Ashmolean. Not a Member yet? Find out more about Ashmolean Membership.