Kabuki star Ichikawa Danjuro has started his first series of performances in Tokyo after assuming the centuries-old stage name.

The performances opened on Monday at the Kabukiza Theatre. Former Ichikawa Ebizo became the 13th actor to assume the renowned name of Danjuro.

He played warrior monk Benkei in the classic Kanjincho, one of the most popular Kabuki plays, and wowed the audience with his dynamism and powerful acting.

His 9-year-old son also took a new name. He is now the 8th Ichikawa Shinnosuke and made his debut in Uiro-uri, a play about a medicine peddler.

He introduced himself in a traditional style on stage, drawing applause from the audience.

One spectator in her 70s says the performances of the father and son moved her to tears. She says Danjuro is brilliant as Benkei, and Shinnosuke is trying his best. She added that she is looking forward to seeing Shinnosuke developing in the future.

The performances commemorating the star's assuming the prestigious stage name were due to start in May 2020, but the naming was postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The run at Kabukiza will continue until December. Performances will be held around Japan through 2024.

Danjuro the first established the rough and wild acting style called Aragoto in the 17th century. Danjuro the 7th selected the 18 most popular plays.