Date of Award

2025

Type

Thesis

Major

Theatre

Degree Type

Bachelor of Arts in Theatre

Department

Theatre Department

First Advisor

Elizabeth Reeves

Second Advisor

Kazue Schmitz

Third Advisor

Dr. Joshua May

Abstract

This paper is a breakdown of various visual and narrative elements of Kabuki and Anime, using the example of Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura, and One Piece. There is a broad overview of both Kabuki and Anime discussing their various tropes and styles. Following this introduction is a three-part breakdown of One Piece and its similarities to Kabuki theatre, with Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura as the reference point for specific examples.

The three-part comparison is structured by first discussing surface level similarities and potential coincidences unique to these two stories in conversation with each other, by looking at a few specific character and location names and specific moments. The second section of analysis looks at when One Piece makes direct homage and references the style of Kabuki in its character design and the narrative structure of the Wano Country Island Arc of the story. The final section is dedicated to visual styles that are less direct, and a breakdown of specific narrative events and character archetypes represented in both pieces. This analysis not only shows the interesting overlap between the two styles but also explains and validates the many qualities of anime that may seem strange to western viewers and allow for a deeper understanding of another culture’s vision and storytelling.

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