Background
Sojuro VIII Sawamura was born in 1908 in Tokyo, Japan. He was the third son of Sojuro VII and younger brother of Takasuke and Tanosuke.
Sojuro VIII Sawamura was born in 1908 in Tokyo, Japan. He was the third son of Sojuro VII and younger brother of Takasuke and Tanosuke.
Sojuro VIII Sawamura made his debut at Imperial Theatre under the name of Genpei (1913). Became a popular kabuki idol as a classic female impersonator after the alteration of his name into Tosshi (1926). Was adopted by Sadanji Ichikawa II (1929). Altered his name to Shoen; readopted his former name Tosshi (1936).
After the termination of the war, joined the Kichiemon Kabuki Drama Troupe, and was given the Mainichi Dramatic and Theatrical Award (1952). Succeeded to the name of Sojuro VIII (1953). On stage, his performance is considered to be most classical and dignified.