Ohayashi Workshop Introduces Japanese Classical Performing Arts to Children of “Tanoshii Fun Camp” at Gardena JCI | July 31
GARDENA, CA – On July 31, the final day of the Gardena Valley Japanese Cultural Institute’s (GVJCI) “Tanoshii Fun Camp,” Gardena resident Mariko Watabe, whose stage name is Katada Kimisen, led an ohayashi workshop for 50 children ages 7 to 10.
The featured piece, Hinazuru Sanbanso, is based on a legend dating back nearly 900 years. After flooding and famine devastated the land, Lord Fujiwara no Tadamichi built Kasuga Shrine and prayed for relief. According to the story, a deity appeared as an old man beneath a pine tree and danced, after which prosperity returned.
The dance’s strong stomping, intended to reinforce the earth, and bell-ringing, symbolizing rice, later became elements of the Noh work Okina. During the Edo period, the piece was adapted for Kabuki and accompanied by shamisen music.
During the workshop, the children clapped and called out rhythmic cues before taking turns in groups of five playing the kotsuzumi, a traditional hand drum.
The program featured shamisen performer Takako Osumi, the stage name of shamisen Kineya Yasoyo; vocalist Etsuko Yokota, the stage name of dance Bando Hiromiya; and assistance from Keiko Hashimoto. GVJCI’s Haruka Kawabata coordinated this workshop.
“I want children to experience this art form, unlike anything else in the world, while they’re young,” Watabe said.
A related concert is scheduled for Sunday, August 23, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rafu Chuo Gakuen School in Boyle Heights. The program will feature visiting Kabuki hayashi master Katada Kisaku IV from Japan.