Originally staged for a private dance recital in 1861, it was later expanded and reused in July 1872 as the fourth act for another play at the Murayama-za in Tokyo.

The plot revolves around the relationship between the father lion, who is aging and weak, and his young, strong son.

It's a sybolic representation of the passing of strength and legacy from one generation to another, showcasing themes of loyalty, family, and the cycle of life.

[3] The dance made its debut at the kabuki stage in July 1872 at the Murayama-za in Tokyo, as the fourth act for another play.

[2] Renjishi was staged at the Kabuki-za in Tokyo in July 2017, with Ichikawa Ebizō XI as the parent lion and Bandō Minosuke II as the cub.