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OKEIKO Special Edition 7

The OKEIKO videos are filmed in the rehearsal hall of Rankoh Fujima. In December 2019, we started an event called "Door to Nihonbuyo" at that practice hall. Disciples of Rankoh, who are professional Nihonbuyo dancers would explain the pieces they perform, then dance. For Nihonbuyo dancers it is challenging to explain the pieces in words. However, if we listen to the verbal explanation, afterwards we will be able to enjoy the dance performed without words more deeply. The event was planned to be held irregularly once a month, but in 2020, due to the coronavirus pandemic it was temporarily suspended. However, in the summer we restarted it with the seating capacity reduced to half and with the windows open (for ventilation). This is a performance where one can see Nihonbuyo up close and in addition with commentary.

The rehearsal hall (‘okeikoba’) is located in a part of Tokyo called Yanagibashi, which has been bustling since the Edo period; it is at the bank of the Sumida River (’Sumida-gawa’), which is an often-used theme in Nihonbuyo. It is a place that retains the flavor of Edo. Please come and visit us when it becomes possible again to travel abroad freely and safely.

(Mitsuko T. Sakurai)