revolving panel with dolls; kabuki stage prop
A kabuki stage device: a panel that flips to reveal a life-size doll on the other side, used for quick character or scene changes.
In kabuki's 'toita-gaeshi,' the panel spins around and a doll appears.
sudden reversal; abrupt change in attitude or situation
Figurative use likening a quick flip to the kabuki prop; often implies a dramatic or unexpected turnaround.
His attitude changed like a toita-gaeshi.
The political situation was completely overturned in a sudden reversal.
Compound of 戸板 (wooden door/panel) and 返し (turning over), referring to the kabuki stage mechanism. The figurative sense derives from the rapid flipping action of the prop.