The list of Kyoto’s “must see” sights and experiences features numerous examples of extravagant, sweeping beauty and powerful historical backstories ― temples, shrines, and palaces breathtaking in their sheer scope and majesty. But another Kyoto “must see,” the GEAR Non-Verbal Theatre, is entirely different. Tucked in a tiny third-floor theater in an obscure corner of the Shinkyogoku shopping district, adjacent to the Teramachi shopping arcade in Kyoto’s Kawaramachi district, this diminutive venue is capable of accommodating no more than 85 patrons, all of whom, regardless of age, will be screaming with delight as they watch a theatrical experience they will never forget.
GEAR Non-Verbal Theater is performance art of the highest caliber, creativity, color and humor. The first attraction of its kind in Japan, GEAR is deeply influenced by traditional Japanese performing arts, especially Kabuki, but this gifted troupe gives it a 21st century spin--literally.
GEAR has now been performed over 4,000 times and continues to be fine-tuned by its rotating cast of gifted mimes, acrobats, magicians, hoofers and break dancers, set against a backdrop of novel set design and state-of-the-art digital lighting effects. There is no language barrier, and nothing gets lost in translation, because GEAR is completely non-verbal―there’s plenty of sound as the theater is filled with bangs, booms, assorted stage effects, and peals of laughter…but no words. None are needed.
GEAR stimulates your five senses with a surprisingly poignant story set in the future. As the troupe’s brochure puts it, “In the wastelands of the future, personified robots (Roboroids) continue to work in a former toy factory. And there appeared a doll that was once manufactured by the factory, ‘Doll.’ Through the slow comprehension and adaptation of the environment around them, Roboroids and Doll are able to obtain ‘curiosity’ and ‘playfulness,’ bringing them closer to human beings.”
This bland description seriously understates the sheer visual exuberance and astonishing skill of the performers and staging. The cast members engage one another―and the audience as well―in a wild 90-minute array of gags, tricks, stunts and emotions that will, to borrow a phrase from P.T. Barnum, captivate ladies, gentlemen and children of all ages.
Details
On most days, there are several performances a day (afternoon and early evening), with tickets ranging from JPY 3,600 to 7,200. Performances are often sold out, so be sure to reserve your tickets well in advance.
Location and Contact Information
1928 Building,〒604-8082 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Benkeiishicho, 56 1928ビル 3階
Phone: +81 120-937-882