2024/11/17/ Nagoya-born actress likes to share Japanese culture with American audiences through stage production of “Princess Kaguya” at Shoseian Teahouse in Glendale Nov. 17 at 2PM
Actress Kay Suzumura likes to share Japanese culture with American audiences through the stage production of Princess Kaguya.
Princess Kaguya is presented by Kuro Productions + Kay at Shoseian Japanese Teahouse at the Brand Park, 1601 W Mountain Street, Glendale on Sunday, November 17 at 2:00 p.m.
Admission is free. The space is limited. Early arrival is recommended.
Reviving the classic story of The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, this solo performance explores the extraordinary life of Princess Kaguya.
The beautiful princess, who descends from the moon, experiences love and conflict on the Earth as she embarks on a journey toward her destined homeland.
Through meticulous acting and a simple yet powerful direction, this work delves into universal themes of loneliness, separation, and the meaning of human existence, resonating deeply with the audience’s hearts.
The reason Suzumura chose this story is that the autumn tradition of the Harvest Moon (Jūgoya) resonates with the tale of Princess Kaguya returning to the moon.
Through this stage production, Suzumura strongly hopes that American audiences will become more familiar with Japanese traditions and culture.
The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter (Taketori Monogatari) embodies Japan’s aesthetic and philosophy, conveying universal themes that transcend borders.
Through Kay Suzumura’s performance, this timeless story will be revived with new energy, resonating with American audiences. It is her hope that Kaguya-hime will become a work where classical and modern culture blend, allowing the audience to experience and appreciate the beauty and universality of Japanese culture.
Kay Suzumura, born in Nagoya, is an actress currently based in the U.S., working internationally. She can be seen across films, TV, and stages.
In Japan, she has appeared in popular variety shows such as London Hearts and The God of Entertainment. On stage, in 2000, she starred in Beret’s Knight, written and directed by Sou Kitamura. In 2004, she was featured in Trigger, which won the Teatro New Drama Award. In 2005, she performed in the TV series Bear Tours and Where We Going? on KXLA, as well as the music video Unconditional Love.
Her career is wide-ranging. Through her performance, Suzumura hopes to introduce Japanese traditions and culture to American audiences.
Pre-Performance Activities: Before the performance, an Edo-Senke home style tea ceremony will be held for the audience to enjoy Japanese sweets and Matcha tea. Through the tea ceremony, audiences will experience the spirit of Japanese hospitality which sets the tone for entering the out of this world tale of Princess Kaguya while listening to the beautiful sound of Koto performed by Saeko Kujiraoka.
