Characters
Kyogen actor Ukon, later spirit of father lion
Mature Kyogen actor. Such actors used to go to samurai residences and perform Kabuki for the women residents, who were not allowed to go to theaters. He carries a lion’s head in his hand and portrays the severity and love of the father in training his cub. In the final act, he reappears as the spirit of a dignified father lion with a long white mane.
Kyogen actor Sakon, later spirit of lion cub
Young Kyogen actor. He carries the puppet head of a lion cub, and dancing the bravery of the young lion in climbing the deep ravine after realizing his father’s deep love for him. He appears in the final act as the spirit of a youthful lion with red mane.
Hokke sect monk Rennen
A monk in the Hokke sect who arrives at Mt Seiryo for training. He chants the prayer of this sect. He argues with his travel partner Tennen over their respective sects and chants with a drum.
Jodo sect monk Hennen
A monk in the Jodo sect who chants in a different style from his travel partner Rennen. He argues with Rennen over their respective sects, and chants with a bell to demonstrate his sect’s superiority.
