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Dancing in their hands: Japan wig masters set stage alive

In kabuki theatre, wigs are the final essential element that helps actors fully inhabit their roles.

Published Apr 22, 2026, 11:01 PM EDT | WFMZZ

Every actor in kabuki — a traditional Japanese performing art celebrated for its striking makeup and elaborate costumes — relies on one final, essential element to fully inhabit their role: the wig. The skilled wig masters create and manage these pieces to complete the actors' transformations on stage.