Of all the places on Earth to learn nihon buyo (traditional Japanese dance), you’d hardly expect Austin, deep in the heart of Texas, to be one of them. And yet, the city serves as home to the Hanayagi Dance Academy, which is directed by Chizuko Matsumoto (also known by her buyo name, Master “Rokumizu” Hanayagi). Through her teachings, she helps preserve this graceful and culturally-valuable art form, which dates back four centuries, and her students range in age from 5 years old to 82 years old.
JASGA Nihon Buyo Workshop – First Dance from Austin Otaku on Vimeo.
Last night, the Japan-America Society of Greater Austin hosted a Nihon Buyo Workshop at Casa de Luz, near downtown Austin. Matsumoto-sensei gave a thorough overview of the use of gestures to tell a story and the various fans used to symbols different seasons or natural elements, such as the cherry blossom in the dance associated with “Sakura, Sakura.”
JASGA Nihon Buyo Workshop – Sakura Sakura Dance from Austin Otaku on Vimeo.
There was an excellent turnout for the event, showing just how interested Austinites are in Japanese culture.
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It was a real treat to be able to watch the graceful movements associated with nihon buyo. Next month the JASGA will host a shamisen performance. Be sure to join me there!
JASGA Nihon Buyo Workshop – Second Dance from Austin Otaku on Vimeo.
NOTE: By the way, if you’re in Austin, and you’re interested in learning nihon buyo from Matsumoto-sensei, please send a note to me through the Contact Us page, and I’ll respond with her telephone number.
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