1.
rakugo performer; rakugo storyteller
A professional performer of 落語, the traditional Japanese art of comic storytelling. The performer kneels alone on stage in a kimono, narrates a long humorous story, and plays all characters by changing voice and direction of gaze.
有名な落語家が出演した。
A famous rakugo performer appeared.
彼は落語家になりたくて弟子入りした。
He wanted to become a rakugo performer, so he became an apprentice.
落語家は扇子と手拭いだけで多くの登場人物を演じ分ける。
Rakugo performers play many different characters using only a fan and a hand towel.
Compound of 落語 (rakugo) + 家 (practitioner, professional). 落語家 follow a strict ranking system: 見習い → 前座 → 二つ目 → 真打.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 落語家になる: to become a rakugo performer
- 人気落語家: popular rakugo performer
- 落語家に弟子入りする: to apprentice oneself to a rakugo performer
CULTURAL CONTEXT:
A rakugo performer's stage name is given by their master and changes as they rise through the ranks. The two main professional associations are 落語協会 and 落語芸術協会 in Tokyo.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 芸人: entertainer; comedian — broader category that includes modern stand-up
- 噺家: storyteller — an older, more traditional term for the same profession