HISTORY OF JAPAN THEATRE

Nov.1966	On July 1st, the National Theatre was founded as a special legal entity, according to the National Theatre Law. On November 1st the Large and Small theatres were opened in Hayabusa-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo.
Mar.1979	The Engei Hall was opened next to the National Theatre.
Sep.1983	The National Noh Theatre was opened in Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.
Mar.1984	The National Bunraku Theatre was opened in Nipponbashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka.
Mar.1989	The National Theatre Law was amended, and preparations for the establishment of the New National Theatre Tokyo (a theatre for opera and modern theatrical productions) begins.
Mar.1990	The Japan Arts Fund was founded. The National Theatre was reorganized and renamed as the Japan Arts Council.
Oct.1997	The New National Theatre Tokyo was opened in Honmachi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo. The management of the theatre is commissioned to the New National Theatre Foundation. The Stage Set & Design Centre was opened on November 1st in Choshi city, Chiba.
Mar.2003 :	The Traditional Performing Arts Information Centre was opened next to the National Theatre.
Oct.2003	The Japan Arts Council was reorganized and became an Independent Administrative Institution.
Jan.2004	The National Theatre Okinawa was opened. Its management is commissioned to the National Theatre Okinawa Management Foundation.