Demonstrations
AsiaAlive: “Art of Laughter” The Kyogen Theater of Japan
Thursdays through Sundays, July 9 through 19
12:00 noon–4:00 pm
North Court
FREE with general admission
Be a part of the living tradition of Japanese Kyogen Theater—kyogen literally means wild speech or comical tales—with Izumi Junko and Miyake Tokuro from Japan. They will demonstrate kyogen performance techniques and discuss their career as the first female performers in this male-dominated field. Daughters of the 19th generation head of the Izumi school of Kyogen, Izumi and Miyake have opened the Kyogen stage for women while strictly following the traditions of their art.
Co-sponsored with the Japan Society of Northern California and the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco.
AsiaAlive: Martial Arts Series
Fridays through Sundays, August 7 through 23
12:00 noon–4:00 pm, North Court.
FREE with general admission
In conjunction with Lords of the Samurai, AsiaAlive showcases three Japanese martial art forms.
August 7-9: Northern California Kendo Federation and Northern California Iaido Association demonstrate kendo kata, fundamental techniques of attacking and counter-attacking with swords.
August 15-16: Northern California Kyudo Federation presents Kyudo, Japanese archery.
August 21-23: Japanese sword polishing demonstration by Jimmy Hayashi.
