The Activities of the Sanei Family and the Expansion of Shochiku in Dōtonbori during the Meiji Period

Abstract

This study examines the activities of the Sanei impresario family in Dōtonbori, Osaka, during the Meiji period, as well as the historical background of Shochiku's expansion into the area. Led by its founder Mikawa Tsumakichi, Sanei managed theaters, such as Nakaza and Naniwaza, while also participating in the 1887 Theater Reform Movement which sought to modernize theater management.

After Tsumakichi's death, his adopted sons Mikawa Yasugorō and Mikawa Hikoji inherited the name “Sanei” and took charge of the theaters, with Yasugorō managing Ebisuza and Hikoji managing Nakaza. Hikoji not only served as the proprietor of Nakaza but also donated to the Japanese Red Cross Society. Additionally, he was a Shinto priest.

Sanei was the first impresario to provide a theater for Shochiku's expansion into Osaka. The latter's entry into Dōtonbori began with a performance at Nakaza in February 1906, facilitated by Hikoji. Another member of the Sanei family, Mikawa Kōzaburō, also worked at Nakaza under Shochiku's management.

This study analyzes the genealogy and activities of the Sanei family to provide a clear understanding of the transformation of theater management in modern Osaka and reevaluate the history of impresarios in Dōtonbori before Shochiku's rise to dominance.