You Can’t Help but Laugh! Ouse’s Traditional Performing Art: Hyottoko Odori

“Hyottoko” is a traditional male Japanese character who is usually portrayed with a puckered mouth. The mask for Ouse’s version of Hyottoko, however, has no mouth. This means that the mouth of the performer can be seen, allowing “Hyottoko” to express a variety of emotions. The performer’s eyes, however, are hidden. Why? To keep the performer from feeling embarrassed! Enjoying Hyottoko Odori is only one part of the experience—it also has an educational side as performers elevate their power of expression. Even those who start off embarrassed end up enjoying themselves as they perform Hyottoko’s marvelous dance.