Julie Iezzi

Julie Iezzi is a Professor of Theatre and Undergraduate Theatre Advisor at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, specializing in traditional Japanese theatre with a focus on Noh, Kabuki, and Kyōgen. She holds MA degrees in Asian Theatre (1991, UHM) and Musicology (1996, Tokyo University of Fine Arts and Music), as well as a PhD in Asian Theatre (2000, UHM). Her work bridges practice and research, collaborating with master artists in Japan to produce large-scale theatre events.

Education:

• PhD in Asian Theatre, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (2000)
• MA in Musicology, Tokyo University of Fine Arts and Music (1996)
• MA in Asian Theatre, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (1991)

Her research emphasizes cultural exchange through performance, including directing and translating works for international audiences. She has curated exhibits like Mirror and Mirage: Japanese Noh and Kyōgen (2002), From Stage to Page: Kabuki Through Woodblock Prints (2009), and Hawaiʻi Kabuki: Connections Through Time and Space (2024). Collaborations with Japanese artists have produced over ten major productions, including kabuki (2000, 2004, 2011, 2024) and kyōgen (2002, 2007, 2017, 2021), many touring globally.

Her expertise spans nagauta shamisen performance, kyōgen training under the Shigeyama family, and the professional name Tokiwazu Tokisato granted by her narrative singing master in 2022. She teaches courses such as Asian Theatre—Japan and Multi-Cultural Directing, emphasizing experiential learning.