A cypress stage for Kyogen artists living in the 21st century
Vol.12 Developing people
Ozo doctrine (Noh performer Kyogen style Ozo school)
I think it's the same in any organization, but it's difficult to develop people!
Currently, I have one apprentice under me. He was five years younger than me, and he knocked on my father's door right after graduating from college. Naturally, I became the educational instructor.
This was my first experience raising people, so it was a lot of trial and error figuring out how to interact with them and how to communicate with them. At that time, I read Shizuka Ijuin's book ``Adult Style'' and was amazed.
"When scolding someone, use your own words."
"It's okay to be unreasonable. Society is even more unreasonable."
Until then, I had taken a step back when approaching him, but I decided to follow Mr. Ijuin's instructions and express my thoughts in my own words. Sometimes I end up saying a little too much, but when that happens I don't forget to follow up later.
The training process for an uchideshi begins with what is called a ``bag holder.'' On practice days, I have the place cleaned in the morning. They will also teach you how to clean from scratch, including cleaning tatami mats and stage floors.
On the day of the performance, I carry my costume and go backstage. In the dressing room, the costumes are arranged on the costume shelf. It is also important to stock up on any props needed on stage. If you don't know how to prepare it, I'll teach you, and I'll also take questions. I would also be careful if the costume is not handled well.
Pumping tea is also an important job.
They will also give detailed instructions on when to pour tea and how to serve it. For example, if you don't add something like, ``Would you like some tea?'' or ``I've made some tea for you,'' you won't know whose tea it is. The amount of tea is at the 8th minute.
I also have to teach them how to put on costumes. It is important to fold the garment correctly, carefully and accurately, and to wear it quickly. If I can't do it, I'll be careful, and sometimes I'll get angry.
Even if it's just how to fold it, I'll teach you how to avoid making the wrong creases.
As the saying goes, ``A disciple is someone who asks for instruction,'' and basically I do not ``teach'' them. Have them look at it and memorize it, and ask questions if they don't understand.
By doing so, you will naturally develop an attitude of tackling things spontaneously. Care is not something to worry about, but something to work on. What do I need now and what should I do? You have to think for yourself and solve the problem yourself.
The trust that is created becomes a strong bond, and strong teamwork is born.
It's not just about the stage performance, but the attitude and etiquette with which you approach your work and how you are as a person are very important. I feel that it is my duty as an educator to raise him so that when he becomes a full-fledged person, he will not be embarrassed no matter where he goes.
It has been 10 years since he started training. I think he followed me well. People of different ages were born into different environments. Although we have different values and ways of thinking, I would like to continue to build a good relationship so that we can recognize the strengths of our students and respect each other.
