2024 Nihon Buyo in the 21st Century From Kabuki Dance to Boléro (Jan 24 - 26, 2024)NEW

Witness a breathtaking union of Japan’s most talented nihon buyo dancers, featuring the esteemed Hanayagi Motoi and rising young star Azuma Tokuyo (also known as Nakamura Kazutaro in kabuki theater). Nihon buyo, literally meaning “Japanese dance,” encompasses an animated style that draws from traditional kabuki dance techniques. The program begins with Toba-e, a kabuki dance accompanied by live music, which depicts a comical manga story from the Edo period. The second half of the program is a piece set to Maurice Ravel’s famous score, Boléro. Expertly choreographed by Hanayagi Genkuro, this unexpected combination of East and West brilliantly retells a classical Japanese folk tale, with Kazutaro showcasing his exceptional talent in the onnagata (female) role of the heartbroken princess, Kiyohime.

A pre-performance lecture, led by California State University, San Bernardino Dr. Kirk Kanesaka, begins at 6:30 pm.

Performed in Japanese with English supertitles.
The cast in the photo differs from the program.

3 Dates
• Wednesday, January 24, 7:30 pm: Followed by a Private Gathering for Artists and Members

• Thursday, January 25, 7:30 pm: Followed by an artist Q&A

• Friday, January 26, 7:30 pm

Prices
$55 Nonmembers
$44 Members
$44 Person with Disability

Tickets

Nihon Buyo
"Nihon Buyo" refers to a traditional Japanese dance form that has been developed and refined over centuries. It translates to "Japanese dance" in English. Nihon Buyo encompasses a wide range of movements and styles, often characterized by graceful and precise gestures, elaborate costumes, and symbolic storytelling.

Nihon Buyo Dancer
When someone is referred to as a "Nihon Buyo dancer," it means they are a performer or practitioner of this traditional Japanese dance. These dancers undergo extensive training to master the intricate movements and expressions associated with Nihon Buyo, and they often perform in various settings, including traditional ceremonies, cultural events, and theatrical productions. Nihon Buyo dancers play a vital role in preserving and promoting Japan's rich cultural heritage through their artistry and performances.