Posted on June 15, 2026
Azuma Kotobuki Kai will present its Annual Student Recital on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at 2:30pm at Thousand Oaks High School Performing Arts Center. The program highlights sixty dancers, ages four to adult, and honors six accomplished graduating seniors while introducing three dancers in their hatsubutai (stage debut). Performances include a duet by two four-year-olds to the children’s song “Tanabata Sama” and a heartfelt rendition of “Ave Maria” by nine dancers accompanied by Special Guest Artist Kendyl Sayuri Yokoyama.
Kendyl Sayuri Yokoyama, an Azuma-trained dancer and seasoned musical performer, will sing and accompany the dancers during “Ave Maria.” Her professional credits include a six-and-a-half-year tenure on the national tour of Hamilton, where she covered all five ensemble woman roles and later portrayed all three lead women—Peggy (Maria), Angelica, and the lead role of Eliza for one-and-a-half years. Following the tour, she was cast in the Asian American musical “The Family Album” in San Diego.
Under the guidance of Azuma Kikusue, the Azuma Kotobuki Kai and its students have performed at professional venues and benefit events for community and nonprofit organizations. Kikusue continues to teach classical Japanese dance while engaging Yonsei (4th) and Gosei (5th) generations by blending traditional Nihon Buyō techniques with contemporary influences, contributing to the perpetuation of Japanese culture in the U.S.
This not-for-profit event offers reasonable ticket prices and doors open at 2:00pm. Tickets are recommended in advance with limited availability at the door. Reception to follow the concert. Ticket prices: Adult $15; Seniors (62+) $10; Youth (age 3–17) $10; Age 2 and under free. For ticket information, email kikusue.azuma@gmail.com.
