Pronunciation: [wˈata͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The word "watai" is spelled with five letters - w, a, t, a, i. It is pronounced with the IPA phonetic transcription /wətaɪ/. The first sound is a voiced labio-velar approximant /w/ followed by a schwa sound /ə/. The third sound is a voiceless alveolar stop /t/ which is then followed by another schwa sound /ə/. The final sound is a diphthong consisting of a near-close near-front unrounded vowel /a/ and a high front unrounded vowel /ɪ/.
Watai is a Japanese term that refers to a specific style or genre of traditional Japanese theater, particularly in the context of kabuki theater. Literally meaning "Japanese taste" or "Japanese form," watai refers to the distinctive and stylized manner of performing and presenting kabuki plays.
In watai, the emphasis lies on displaying and emphasizing the quintessential Japanese aesthetic principles and values. This includes showcasing the elegant and elaborate costumes, intricate makeup, gestures, and movements of the actors, as well as the traditional music accompanying the performance.
Watai is characterized by its carefully choreographed and deliberate movements, often incorporating a rhythmic element that adds to the visual and auditory appeal of the performance. The actors' exaggerated expressions and gestures are specifically designed to evoke specific emotions and convey the essence of the characters they portray.
The overall goal of watai is to transport the audience to a different time and place, immersing them in the richness of Japanese culture and history. It aims to create a heightened sense of theatricality that is both captivating and captivatingly foreign.
Watai can be seen as a celebration and preservation of traditional Japanese theater and art forms. It encapsulates the essence of Japanese cultural heritage, and its popularity and significance have endured over centuries, making it an integral part of Japan's artistic legacy.
