The International Theatre Institute, based in Paris, is offering half-price tickets to foreigners living in Japan for a Kabuki Night in Tokyo in November. The tickets are for first-class seats at the Kabuki-za, one of the few theaters in Japan where performances of this traditional art form can be seen.

The programs include one of the Kabuki-za's most popular plays "Renjishi (Lion Dance)," where the colorful makeup, eye-catching costumes and memorable dance performances of the actors have created a lasting impression on audiences in previous years. The program will also feature a performance of "Hi ni Mukau Shima no Kagekiyo," which stars the well-known kabuki actor Kichiemon II in the role of Kagekiyo.

Evening performances will start at 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 18, 19 and 20. The tickets are 7,350, yen half the normal price of 14,700 yen.

To apply, please send an e-mail to [email protected] with your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, nationality, preferred date and the number of tickets you would like to purchase (maximum of four per application). The application deadline is Oct. 20.

At the theater, an English earphone guide providing a translation of the dialogue, as well as explanations, will be offered at a discounted rate of 500, yen and an English-language program will also be available.

For inquiries in English, call (090) 4396-1268 between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.