Manzai (Japanese stand-up comedy) Workshop
- Date
- Thursday 23 October 2025, 5-6:30pm
- Location
- Baines Wing SR (2.06)
- Category
- East Asian Translation
What is Manzai?
Manzai is a traditional Japanese comedy style involving two performers: the “BOKE” (funny one) and the “TUKKOMI” (straight man). The BOKE amuses the audience with silly remarks, unexpected actions, or surprising statements. In contrast, the TSUKKOMI acts as the logical counterpart, correcting the BOKE’s antics and steering the conversation. Their dynamic interaction and playful exchanges create the humor that defines MANZAI.
Manzai Workshop
This workshop uses "Easy Japanese" to help participants learn the language while creating their own manzai comedy skits. This workshop will be conducted by Manu Shimaoka-san, a member of the professional Japanese comedy group フランポネ.
Structure:
- Introduction & Explanation of Manzai (15 minutes): Participants learn about the performers and the basics of manzai, a traditional Japanese comedy style.
- Forming Duos & Choosing Team Names (15 minutes): Participants pair up and decide on creative team names.
- Creating a 3-Line Skit (15 minutes): Each duo writes a short manzai routine, focusing on humorous exchanges between the "boke" and "tsukkomi" roles.
- Performing Skits (15 minutes): Participants present their skits to the group, showcasing their comedic creativity.
The workshop lasts 45–60 minutes, depending on the number of participants, and emphasizes language learning through fun and engaging activities.
Reference Videos (in Japanese)
Further information (in English)
For enquiries please contact Kazuki Morimoto or Yuka Oeda