1.
art of storytelling; narrative performance art
The skill or art form of entertaining an audience through spoken performance. Encompasses traditional Japanese genres such as rakugo, manzai, and kodan, as well as modern stand-up and storytelling styles.
Composed of 話 (talk, speech) and 芸 (art, performance). Refers specifically to performance arts where the spoken word is the primary medium — the performer's voice, timing, and delivery are the craft. This distinguishes 話芸 from acting (演技) or singing (歌唱).
Japan has a particularly rich tradition of 話芸, with genres dating back centuries. The word carries cultural weight and implies respect for the craft.
Key genres
- 落語: comic storytelling by a solo performer on a cushion
- 漫才: stand-up comedy duo with rapid-fire exchanges
- 講談: dramatic narrative recitation of historical tales
- 浪曲: narrative singing with shamisen accompaniment
Common collocations
Related Words
Compare:
話術 (art of conversation)