Cultural News, 2005 April issue
Mme. Hisami Wakayagi of South Pasadena and her troupe “Hana-no-Kai” presented their 25th anniversary performance on March 5 and 6, 2005 at Aratani/Japan America Theatre in Little Tokyo.
In the two-day performance, five new natori-title students were recognized with a debut and presentation of their stage names.
With inviting guest dancers from Tokyo such as Masayasu Wakayagi, Hikosaemon Wakayagi, Keika Wakayagi, Tadasuke Wakayagi, and Sanjyuro Wakayagi, Hisami Wakayagi and her troupe performed magnificent Japanese classical dances.
(Photo Courtesy of Hana-no-Kai)
Tokiwazu “Kyoningyo” performed by Sensho Wakayagi and Tadasuke Wakayagi
A scene where Jingoro (Tadasuke), a sculptor, is surprised that his creation of doll (Sensho) comes to life and move out of the box. (Photo by Shigeo Mizutani)
Nagauta “Shofudatsuki” performed by Hikosaemon Wakayagi and Hisami Wakayagi
One of the famous Kabuki plays. This scene is the last pose for dramatic effort to the audience. (Photo by Akio Kobayashi)
Tokiwazu “Koma” performed by Hisaki Wakayagi
A scene when a top vendor becomes a top himself, wearing a top pattern and turns like a top. (Photo by Akio Kobayashi)
Gidayu “Yagura no Ohichi” performed by Saemi Nakamura
In falling snow, Ohichi runs up the bell tower to strike the bell to save her lover’s life sacrificing her own life. (Photo by Akio Kobayashi)
Nagauta “Musume Dojoji”performed by Hisame Wakayagi
A scene where Kiyohime finally funds her lover inside the bell, transformed herself into a serpent and slithers up the temple bell. (Photo by Akio Kobayashi)