Tanroh Ishida, a celebrated thespian of international repute, hailing from the culturally rich city of London, possesses a remarkable dual proficiency in both the classical Western theatre tradition and the esteemed art form of traditional Japanese theatre.
Tanroh's journey in the world of Japanese Traditional Noh/Kyogen Theatre began at the tender age of three, marking the start of a rigorous and comprehensive training process that would shape his artistic skills and knowledge.
Under the guidance of his father, who was himself a seasoned practitioner of the art form, Tanroh was able to tap into the rich cultural heritage of Japanese theatre. His father's master, a respected mentor in the field, also played a pivotal role in Tanroh's development, providing valuable insights and expertise that helped to refine his craft.
As a result of this early immersion, Tanroh was able to gain a deep understanding of the traditional techniques and principles that underpin Japanese Noh/Kyogen Theatre. He was able to hone his skills in areas such as acting, movement, and vocal technique, as well as develop a keen appreciation for the cultural and historical context in which the art form evolved.
Through his rigorous training, Tanroh was able to establish a strong foundation in the art of Noh/Kyogen Theatre, setting him on a path that would allow him to make significant contributions to the world of Japanese performance art.
Tanroh's inquisitive nature continued to evolve as he entered the later stages of his youth, prompting a significant transformation in his interests and ambitions. The allure of Western theatre, in particular, began to captivate his imagination, fuelling a deep-seated desire to delve deeper into the world of drama and performance. This fascination ultimately led to a life-altering decision: at the tender age of 15, Tanroh made the bold choice to relocate to England, a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage and esteemed institutions of higher learning.
It was during this formative period that Tanroh's unwavering determination and perseverance came to the fore. Despite the numerous challenges and obstacles that lay ahead, he remained resolute in his pursuit of further education and his ambition to audition for the most prestigious drama schools in the country. And it was this unshakeable resolve that ultimately paid off, as Tanroh secured a coveted spot at the renowned Guildhall School of Music and Drama, a prestigious institution that has produced some of the world's most talented and accomplished performers.
Tanroh's impressive educational background at Guildhall served as a springboard for his subsequent entrepreneurial venture, as he went on to found his own theatre company, aptly named Tea Leaf Theatre. This innovative endeavour has since blossomed into a vibrant hub for artistic experimentation, boldly pushing the boundaries of theatrical traditions by skillfully merging the distinct cultural influences of East and West.
Tanroh has had the rare and esteemed privilege of taking the stage at some of the most revered and historic performance spaces in the world, including the illustrious Carnegie Hall and the renowned Shakespeare's Globe, thereby unequivocally cementing his status as a gifted and multifaceted thespian.
