Tsuruga Wakasanojo XI

Designated Living National Treasure (Bearer of Intangible Cultural Property)
Shinnai Joruri Narrative Song

11th headmaster, Tsuruga school of Shinnai

Born in Kagurazaka, Tokyo, 1938.

Studied Shinnai-style musical storytelling with his father, Tsuruga Isetayu, and received his first stage name in 1958 at the age of 20. In 1973, following his father's death, he succeeded to the name Isetayu and in 2000 became the 11th holder of the name Tsuruga Wakasanojo, which is the premier professional name in the Shinnai world. The first Tsuruga Wakasanojo was the originator of the art form of Shinnai.

As president of the Shinnai Association of Japan, Wakasanojo-sensei serves both in name and in practice as the leader of the Shinnai world and is active in educational and promotional as well as expansion activities for the preservation and future vitality of the Shinnai art form.

Widely recognized for the emotional depth he brings to his performances and his exceptional vocal range and skill, he was designated by the Japanese Ministry of Culture a Living National Treasure in 2001 and as an honorary citizen of Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo, in 2002.

Wakasanojo-sensei has authored and composed many pieces and has performed overseas in more than thirty cities in North and South America, Europe, and Asia. Through innovative collaborations with Kuruma Ningyo puppetry, Noh, and dance, he has tirelessly pursued his goal of further making Shinnai enjoyable to the eyes as well as the ears. He regularly appears on television and radio and in recital performances of traditional as well as new works.