We've known him as Nakamura Kantaro II thus far, but the 30-year-old kabuki actor born Masayuki Namino will be assuming a new title this year. He makes his debut as Nakamura Kankuro VI at Shimbashi Enbujo theatre in February, when he will play two celebrated – and wildly contrasting – roles. The matinee centres on a performance of Tsuchigumo, with Kankuro VI portraying the malevolent Earth Spider spirit, while the evening show will give the audience and fellow thesps a chance to congratulate him on his new title, before sitting back and watching him perform the famous onnagata dance from Shunkyo Kagami Jishi.
