The Intercultural Communication Center (ICC) has always been a great avenue to meet new friends and experience different cultures and activities from other countries. As an international student, attending events like traditional Japanese performing art shows provides an opportunity for cultural immersion, allowing individuals to learn more about and appreciate the richness of other cultures.
The Yosakoi × Wadaiko Performance event was lively and vibrant. Participants (including myself) were amazed by the spectacular performances of the two performing groups: Waseda University’s Yosakoi circle Tokyo Hanabi and Wadaiko circle Sakigake Hibiki. The performances by these groups were outstanding and exhibited a passion for their art that resonated with the audience. I can vividly remember other participants enjoying and being mesmerized by their coordinated, powerful, and graceful performances, which created an infectious enthusiasm among the participants.
The event was divided into two parts: The first part featured a graceful performance by Tokyo Hanabi, who presented a Kochi-style Yosakoi dance performance with their dynamic movements and vibrant energy. The beautiful blend of traditional Japanese dance and modern choreography, adorned with colorful costumes and the use of wooden clappers, created a harmonious and vivacious vibe. The second part featured a powerful performance by Sakigake Hibiki, whose amazing synchronized drumming was accompanied by lively expressions and encouragement for the audience to join in by yelling at a particular beat. The performances offered a glimpse into the marvels of Japanese art and encouraged others to explore more traditional art shows, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange and immersion.
The event also encouraged participants to try and learn some beats from Sakigake Hibiki, and I remember the enthusiasm and excitement and loud cheers of encouragement emanating from the audience for those who volunteered to try the drums. The event closed with the audience being able to take pictures and have short conversations outside of the venue with the two amazing performing teams.
Before coming to Japan for graduate studies from the Philippines, I had never watched a Japanese traditional art show despite being exposed to other cultures. After participating in this event, I am more enthusiastic about learning more about traditional Japanese performing arts and hope to attend similar events in the future. The event provided a glimpse of the wonders of Japanese performing arts, and it was a delight to experience it live.
Thank you very much to the ICC for organizing this event and for your hard work in ensuring that students can discover other cultures, have new experiences, and make new friends. Special thanks to both groups for their wonderful and lively performances, which surely sparked interest and enthusiasm for traditional Japanese art performances. I am looking forward to future ICC events and highly recommend that other students sign up and engage with events organized by the ICC. These events create opportunities to foster friendships locally and internationally, highlighting that they are more than just events but also avenues to experience new things and form connections.
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- photos by ICC
