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Japanese dance performance
The Consulate-General of Japan at Chennai and the Japan Foundation, Tokyo is organizing a Contemporary dance event by the 'Japanese Contemporary Dance troupe'- BIWAKEI in Chennai. A eight-member team from this troupe is in the city from February 29th to March 3rd 2004.
Contemporary Dance in Japan began in the early 20th century when new dance techniques were brought by the Italian ballet master G.V. Rosi who had been working in London. In 1916, Baku ISHII, one of his disciples performed his original work called 'Dance Poem' which was believed to be the very beginning of the new wave for the contemporary dance movement in Japan.
Certain aspects of Japanese modern dance took a rapid new turn marking a notable footstep in their thought and technique. But in the end of 60s and early 70s, a radical wave of indigenous dance arose from the roots of Japanese culture itself; the Butoh dance and it was recognized not only in Japan but the world over. It was first recognized rather by foreign critics in western country and later became noted worldwide. In recent times the level of Japanese modern dance has universally been acknowledged as top ranking in technique, ideas and execution.
The four artistes in the troupe of eight who are coming to Chennai to provide a feast to the eyes of contemporary dance lovers are Setsuko Yamada, Yukiko Amana, Naoka Kata and Ayana Yamamoto.
Setsuko Yamada was born on December 25, 1950. She studied under Akira Kasai in 'Tenshikan' and later established her own unique dance style. Her works evoke delicate forms and fertile images and are consistently given the highest acclaim. She has performed throughout the world, in London, New York and Seoul. Her representative works include 'FATHER', 'Land Dreams' and 'Songs'. In addition to her solo performances, she serves as the director of the dance company BIWAKEI. She is a professor in the Department of Performing Arts of the Kyoto University of Art and Design.
Yukika Amano was born February 14, 1973. Even while still a student, she has experimented highly impromptu dance forms. She practices Tai Chi Cuan, and Ba Gua Zhang among others. Her performs include 'Land Dreams' and 'Flying Girls'. Her solo works include 'Purplele' (winner of the Y okohama ST Spot Labo Award, Osaka Trii-Hall Labo 20 Go WEST! and CONPEITO). In 2002, 'Purplele' was awarded the 1st Toriii Award Grand Prize and CONPEITO was awarded the audience award in the Toyota Choreography Awards.
Naoka Kata was born on November 27, 1975. While studying at Ehime University she was an understudy of Makiko Ushiyama and has been an active member of BIWAKEI since 1999. She has performed in 'Land Dreams' and 'Flying Girls'. Her solo works are 'JUST STREET' and 'la la la FANTASY'.
Ayano Yamamoto was born on November 13, 1975. She became a member of the BIWAKEI troupe while studying at the School of Letters, Arts and Sciences, Waseda University. Her performances are 'Land Dreams' and 'Flying Girls'. She returned to Japan after studying contemporary dance in France in April 2000. Her solo work is 'Volcano Waltz'. She is currently in charge of the company's production.
These four will play together as a group to create a concept 'Land Dreams' in which each of them will make the most of their characteristic strength and styles. A creative session, a solo performance -- these would be the highlights of the
programme.
The dance programme in Chennai will be held at the Rani Seethai Hall for one day on Tuesday, March 2, 2004 from 1830 hrs. All dance lovers in Chennai are invited to the programme. Entry is free. Seats will be available on first-come-first-served basis.
RR
Published on 2nd March, 2004
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