JPA Free Public Program "Ages of Enchantment 2025"

*Important Notice Regarding Reservations

Please be sure to read the following information carefully before making a reservation.

All attendees must reserve their spot via Eventbrite. However, please note that a reservation does not guarantee a seat. Seating for this performance is on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the venue reaches full capacity, no additional guests will be admitted. If you wish to attend, we strongly recommend arriving early.

Doors open at 4:30 PM.

Japan Performing Arts, Inc. (JPA) proudly presents the stage performance of its Free Public Program, “Ages of Enchantment 2025.” JPA hosts two Free Public Programs annually in theater venues, and we are delighted to announce that both performances this year will be held at Symphony Space.

The performance lineup for “Ages of Enchantment 2025” includes:

1. Traditional Japanese Kabuki Dance

2. Japanese Harp Performance

3. Collaborative Performance: Kabuki Dance & Japanese Harp

4. Contemporary Dance

5. Kimono Fashion Show

6. Awa Odori (Traditional Festival Dance)

7. Japanese Drum Performance

This is a two-hour showcase celebrating the richness and diversity of Japanese performing arts.

Japan Performing Arts Showcase: Cultural Program Overview

At the Japan Performing Arts (JPA) Showcase, audiences are invited to experience a rich tapestry of Japan’s cultural heritage through six exceptional performances, each introduced with contextual insights into the historical and artistic backgrounds of the disciplines presented.

Nihon Buyo – Japanese Traditional Kabuki Dance

The program opens with a performance of Nihon Buyo, the refined classical dance form of Kabuki theater. Three dancers will present the piece titled Ayame Yukata, showcasing the elegant movements and traditional artistry of this style. The dancers will be adorned in the distinctive Ohikizuri costumes, which are characteristic of this traditional dance form.

Koto Performance by Masayo Ishigure and Students

Following the dance, the spotlight turns to one of Japan’s most revered musical instruments, the koto. Masayo Ishigure, a distinguished koto artist based in New York, together with her students, will perform two selections. In 2023, the JPA Nihon Buyo team collaborated on an innovative choreography blending classical Japanese dance with contemporary movement, set to live koto music composed by Hikaru Sawai, Ishigure’s esteemed mentor. Continuing this artistic collaboration, this year’s performance features an original JPA choreography combining traditional Nihon Buyo and contemporary dance styles, again accompanied by live koto performed by Ms. Ishigure.

Contemporary Dance Inspired by Japanese Music

Next, a contemporary dancer will present a performance choreographed to traditional Japanese music, offering a modern interpretation that bridges Japan’s rich musical heritage with contemporary artistic expression.

Cultural Highlights from Tokushima Prefecture

This year’s program also spotlights Tokushima Prefecture’s traditions. The kimono showcase will feature indigo dyeing, a traditional craft deeply rooted in Tokushima’s cultural identity. Additionally, Tokushima is renowned for Awa Odori, a vibrant folk dance. The Tokushima Kenjinkai will perform Awa Odori accompanied by live music, sharing this energetic and celebrated tradition with the audience.

Taiko Performance by Soh-Daiko

The evening concludes with a powerful performance by Soh-Daiko, a taiko drum ensemble with over fifty years of history in the United States. Their dynamic drumming will provide a thrilling finale, delivering the profound energy and rhythm of Japanese taiko.