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Japanese Nō Theatre and the Dramatic Arts (online)
One-day course
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
> Prefer to attend the study day in-person at V&A South Kensington? Book now for Japanese Nō Theatre and the Dramatic Arts
Please note, the study day will not be recorded. Suitable for participants aged 18 or over.
This one-day dramatic arts course introduces students to the classical arts of Nō Theatre, known for its Zen principles of restraint and understatement. Nō will first be explored, tracing the historical development of this dramatic art form and the role of actors and musicians in creating the mood and atmosphere of the often complex narratives. Under the expert guidance of Ashley Thorpe -Nō performer, playwright and academic - students will learn about the significance of movement and gesture, sound and chant.
The afternoon session will focus on the arts of Nō, emphasizing the importance of bold costumes and expressive masks. V&A expert, Anna Jackson, will lead a study session of theatrical costumes in the V&A collection followed by a demonstration by Japanese carver, Kitazawa Hideta, offering students a rare opportunity to observe first hand the expert skills of a master craftsman.
> Prefer to attend the study day in-person at V&A South Kensington? Book now for Japanese Nō Theatre and the Dramatic Arts
Please note, the study day will not be recorded. Suitable for participants aged 18 or over.
Study Day Leader
Dr Helen Glaister
Art Historian Dr Helen Glaister specialises in Chinese Ceramics and Decorative Arts. Before the V&A, she worked at the British Museum and Birkbeck, University of London. Helen was awarded her PhD from SOAS, where she still teaches. Current research focusses collections history, Chinese lacquer and ceramics of the late modern period.
Really enjoyable course which has unexpectedly fired an enthusiasm to know more. Previous V&A Academy Course Attendee
Course overview
Nō is the classical theatre of Japan. The dance-drama with a poetic, sung text is the focus of this study day which highlights the costumes and masks in the V&A collection. The day will include lectures, performances and study sessions, exploring the historical development of this dramatic art form and the role of actors and musicians in creating the mood and atmosphere of the often complex narratives.
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Being up close with treasured objects from the V&A's collections brings your learning to life. Get precious time with incredible exemplars, as well as with our expert tutors and your fellow learners.
Enrol now
One-day course: Japanese Nō Theatre and the Dramatic Arts (online)
24 March 2026
£49.00
Call to book +44 (0)20 7942 2000
Need help enrolling? Talk to the admissions team:
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Open 10.00 - 13.00, Monday to Sunday (closed 24-26 December)
Header image: Nô robe of embroidered silk in silk threads and lined with silk, probably made in Kyoto, 1750-1850 © Victoria and Albert Museum, London