Rakugoka Hayashiya Kobuhei (40) is to assume the name Hayashiya Shozo IX from the spring of 2005. As in the other traditional arts, such as kabuki or noh, stage names of the traditional comic story tellers are passed down through the generations. The name Shozo was “loaned” by Kobuhei’s grandfather outside the family for the duration of the 8th generation, and will be returning to the family bloodline for the first time in 24 years. Kobuhei started his career in 1978 and in 1987 was the youngest ever to be promoted to “shinuchi,” a qualification given to those comic storytellers who demonstrate superior skill. He can often be seen on TV variety shows but has recently been promoting traditional rakugo.