by Axel Dörner, Seijiro Murayama and Diego Chamy

In Noh theater, the classical dance theater of Japan, the kōken is a stage attendant/assistant who helps with costume changes, props, and prompts and may be called upon to replace an actor in case of accident. Our performance was billed as a duo by Axel Dörner and Seijiro Murayama. Once Axel and Seijiro were announced, they took their places on stage. I entered the stage at the same time, unannounced, and sat in a chair behind them, assuming the role of the kōken. My role was to assist or even replace the musicians if necessary. No such assistance or replacement was required in this performance. Afterwards, I explained the role of the kōken to anyone who asked.