歌舞伎 is a direct phonetic loan from Japanese 歌舞伎 (かぶき). The Chinese characters happen to have fitting literal meanings: 歌 (song) + 舞 (dance) + 伎 (skill/performer) — a happy coincidence that reflects the actual art form well.
history
Kabuki dates to early 17th-century Japan. It is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The elaborate makeup (隈取り, kumadori) and stylized acting are its most recognizable features.
