Japanese Classical Dance Performance and Talk - the legacy of Nikkei dance artists in internment camps

The other day, I watched a beautiful and powerful documentary which tells stories about teachers who taught Buyo, Kabuki, Gidayu,
shamisen, koto, shakuhachi, Shigin, and other Japanese performing arts in the WWII internment camps.
I was born in Japan and grew up in Japan, so I don't have a direct lineage connection to these teachers of
Japanese performing arts. But I know one thing these teachers in internment camps also knew - regardless of
what life brings to you, even if you lose your belongings, home, business, and land, nobody can take away your
dance and music from you - they are in your heart.
Thirty-six years ago, I came to the US all by myself. Even when life was tough, I always had my Buyo (classical
Japanese dance). Buyo has saved my life. Now I feel it's my mission and responsibility to share what Buyo has
given me.
I want to share what real Buyo looks like, what it is about, and what we can learn from it.
I will perform two solos: an excerpt from a Kabuki dance that premiered in 1820, and another from a
celebratory piece danced to the oldest nagauta song composed around 1720.
I will then talk about Buyo and what I have learned through my decades of experience as a performer, teacher,
and anthropologist.
After a short talk, I will give a workshop. No prior experience is necessary to participate. You can join in any
way you like or just sit and watch.
The workshop will have three parts. It will begin with basic foot, hand, and head movements and their
combination. The second part will be about rhythmic patterns called yatton and tottan, performed with
stamping, chanting, and iki (breath). Third, you will have a hands-on (literally!) experience of learning how to
use the sensu (dancing "fans").
All ages and abilities are welcome. I look forward to seeing you there.
If you have questions about this event, please email me at [email protected].