Kabuki theater originated as a form of entertainment performed by women but is now performed by male actors. It is known for its elaborate costumes and makeup and features long performances during which audiences could eat. Bunraku is a type of puppet theater featuring life-sized puppets operated by three puppeteers and accompanied by a narrator. Noh is Japan's oldest form of theater and features sparse stages and dreamlike stories often involving spirits and ghosts. The theaters differ in their intended audiences and costumes, with Kabuki aimed at commoners and Noh for samurai.
