Onoe Baiko VII

▪ 1996

      (SEIZO TERASHIMA), Japanese Kabuki actor (b. Aug. 31, 1915, Tokyo, Japan—d. March 24, 1995, Tokyo), was revered as the country's leading postwar onnagata (female impersonator) and was designated a Living National Treasure in 1968. Baiko captivated audiences with his exquisite style, sensitive yet riveting portrayals, and masterful interpretations. In keeping with the ancient art of Kabuki, in which the tradition is passed from father to son, Baiko, the illegitimate heir of Kikugoro VI, was adopted by him to preserve the family heritage. Baiko first performed at the age of six and after moving up in rank was named Kikunosuke III in 1935. He was given the honorific stage name of Onoe Baiko VII in 1947. Baiko performed the Fujimusume ("Daughter of Fuji") dance more than 1,000 times and became a household name by appearing on the television drama "Gengizai" ("The Well of Righteousness"). Baiko also appeared in male roles, notably as a samurai, but after the death of his father in 1949, he helped found the Kikugoro acting company and performed only female roles. In 1994 he was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun.

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