A convenient, pocket-size volume, this entertainment guide recommends "plays that are fun to watch and accessible to non-Japanese audiences." These criteria might, one would think, limit the number of possible inclusions, but the authors manage to fill nearly 400 pages with description and opinion.
Some history is given, and a number of synopses are included along with information that is usually more difficult to find. There is a listing of theaters throughout Japan with phone/fax numbers and Web site/e-mail addresses; ticket agency information and ticket prices; calendars for Kabuki and bunraku; as well as floor plans for the Kabuki-za, the Tokyo National Theater (both halls), the National Bunraku Theater, and the National Noh Theater.
In addition there is a listing of all plays -- classic, musical, modern -- that exist on English-subtitled DVDs. In this respect, the guide well serves its claim as "invaluable for anyone planning a trip to Japan and keen to experience its theater firsthand."