Did you know that Japan has more different kinds of performing arts than any other country in the world? These “traditional performing arts have been refined by utilizing the unique sensibility of the Japanese while incorporating elements from foreign cultures, as well as different genres. It is often difficult for those of us living in the modern age to appreciate arts that are unfamiliar, yet through experiencing them for ourselves, we can see and understand the artistry and recognize how fascinating and amazing these arts are. In advance of the 2018 performance, the young artists gathered together to celebrate the appeal of the typical Japanese traditional performing arts of “Japanese classical dance (Nihon-Buyo)” and Nagauta. “We want to convey how much fun the classics are!” Japanese classical dance evolved from Kabuki and the music of the Nagauta Japanese orchestra’s “Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter” / “The Four Seasons” enhances the Kabuki performances.

[Spring]
An excerpt from the music that accompanies the dance (Genroku Era Flower Viewing Dance) The cherry trees are in full bloom. Our hearts are joyous, and we want to dance.
[Summer]
Three varieties of festival music. A summer night, excitement and sadness. What does your summer festival sound like?
[Autumn]
The shamisen represents the sound of the insects. A standard phrase from the “Music of the Insects”. A quiet evening in autumn with a full moon in the sky.
[Winter]
Excerpt from the music that accompanies "Sagimusume". (The White Heron Maiden) A snowy scene. A white eagle flies up through the freezing cold sky.
(Shamisen - highlight of the traditional music) "Osatsuma" where the technique of the shamisen shines, and the musical performance throbs with high tension.
[New Year]
Excerpt from the dance "Kagami Lion". It’s performed at the New Year. A powerful lion brings in a auspicious spring.

Japanese Classical Dance Choreography: Hanayagi Genkuro
Nagauta Shamisen Music Arrangements: Kineya Katsujuro & Mochizui Hideyuki