Semboku City will Host An American Student Program Next Year!

A big step towards Semboku City’s internationalization! Next summer Semboku City will host a large group of American high school students in a home-stay program!

The program is called People to People Student Ambassador Programs. It is by an American organization called People to People, whose aim is to achieve world peace through educational opportunities to understand cultural and language differences. The programs send Student Ambassadors abroad to represent their home community and share their diverse backgrounds with the hosting community.

This program normally sends about 40 students over 4-5 times during a certain period. However, because next year will be the first time in Tohoku, about 120 students will be sent at a time. 80 of them will be home-staying in Semboku City.

Earlier this month, two persons representing the People to People Ambassador Programs visited Semboku City to meet with the Japanese side of coordinators for this program.

A reception party was held at Tazawako Beer Restaurant. There they met our mayor of Semboku City, other government officials involved in Tourism division and Green Tourism farmers in Nishiki town. They were warmly welcomed with cheerful singing and dancing by some Warabi-za theater company’s actors. Although many of the farmers did not speak English, they expressed their overflowing excitement through the interpreters.



Each host-family member gave a short welcome speech at the reception.

The two stayed at a farmer’s inn called Taizando, which is the very first noka-minshuku (farmers inn) registered after the law was revised in 2005.


Taizando （泰山堂）is the first registered noka-minshuku (Farmers Inn) of Akita Prefecture.



The owner, Ms. Fujiwara represents the local Nishiki Town’s Green Tourism association. Her house is full of warm, rustic atmosphere! Her energy and hospitable spirits transcends language borders. The students will have an amazing time with host families like her. The Program coordinators were impressed by hospitality and heartfelt welcome by the hosts!





The group toured around Semboku City to learn about the environment where their students will be exploring for the Japanese rural cultural experiences: Lake Tazawa, about 10-15 minutes away from Nishiki Town, is a beautiful lake that cannot be missed; Ando Jyozo is a soy sauce and miso brewery in Kakunodate Town, which is closed to the Nishinomiya Residence, an old samurai house that turned into a museum and shop; Bukeyashiki-dori is a stree of samurai houses where to time-travel; also, a local Elementary school is where they will have cross-cultural experiences with eager children.

The two remained in high spirits for the entire time! They seemed impressed how friendly and happy the local people are. In the end of the trip, they were certain that the participating American students will have an unforgettable time there.

Semboku City is a perfect place for any rural cultural activities of Japan. From June to July is when the local farmers are restless and cheerful about the new life cycle in their field and mountains. That’s when the hiking season begins in the local mountain, Akita Komagatake.

The program can be applied through the organization, People to People Ambassador Programs. We are looking forward to meet you and your children here!

Warabiza Theater is FREE for Children during the Summer Vacation

The Warabi-za Theater has announced that they will make the tickets free for children during the summer vacation from July 26 to August 24.

Warabi-za Theater is a company whose plays are themed in traditional and regional stories. The company is enthusiastically engaged in educational programs such as theater dance lessons utilizing such themes that are instructed by the company’s well-trained actors. The company is one of the nation’s pioneers of Educational Tourism and Green Tourism (Eo-Tourism), in which they host students group and facilitate local famer’s inns to provide agricultural experiences.

Warabi-za Theater welcomes families with child members before the Middle School. The group must be accompanied by at least one adult member. With a purchase of one FULL-PRICE adult ticket, your group will be provided with up to 3 FREE children’s tickets. This is a great deal which will last until August 24th.

PERFORMANCES:

“ATERUI”

From July 26 to August 16 – All 22 Stages

“SERO-HIKI NO GOJU”

From August 19 and 20 – All 3 Stages

“Omoide Poroporo”

 From August 21 to 24 –All 4 States

 

RESERVATION:

WARABI-ZA RESERVATION CENTER (TEL 0187-44-3939)

WARABI GEKIJO (TEL 0187-44-3915)

Watch WARIKIi's Performance LIVE in Semboku City

Wariki (和力）is a traditional Japanese music and dance group that has a close tie to Semboku City. The group is lead by Mr. Akira Katogi (center in photo above), who was born and raised in Semboku City and trained at Warabi-za Theater Company. This event will be a first opportunity for the Semboku City people to see them after their successful Balkan Tour earlier this year. This is also a charity concert for  the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11.

Sunday, June 19, 2010.

 Door Opens at 13:30 / Stage Starts at 14:00

At Semboku City Auditorium (仙北市民会館）TEL 0187-43-3143

Adult 1,800 Yen / Child 1,100 Yen *Pre-Sale Tickets are 300 Yen Cheaper.

Tickets Available at

Semboku City Auditorium (TEL 0187-43-3143) 

Kakunodate Wonder Mall (TEL 0187-55-5110)

Mr. Maruyama (TEL 0187-44-3822)

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WARIKI

(Profiles, Aims, EU Tour, etc.)

WARIKI, A Traditional Performing Arts Group, Became the First to Tour in the Balkan Region!

Wariki （和力）is a performing arts group that has a close tie to Semboku City, which has become the very first group to be allowed to tour around the Balkan countries!

Ｐｈｏｔｏ ｂｙ Ｓｅｎａｄ Ｇｕｂｅｌｉｃ

The group is lead by Akira Katogi （加藤木　朗）, a former Warabi-za performer who was born and raised  in Semboku City, as well as Shunsuke Kimura　（木村俊介）, another trained performer whose works have been employed on NHK, etc. The other two artists are also very talented unique artists to support the group.

On Katogi’s official website, he states Wariki’s Aim as follows：

“We at Wariki aim to play traditional folk entertainment as a theatrical art. Our art is based on Japanese tradition, and every tradition has had its beginnings. There are primordial forms and spirits. These forms and spirits combined, have built the tradition gradually. Our pioneers have refined these forms, so now it is referred to as the tradition. The tradition is not only made up from the essence of experiences and arts , but you have to understand how to use the arts effectively, and what the tradition itself is.

Wariki is a flexible unit. Even the number of members is not fixed. We are searching each world, but at the same time, we are looking for what we cannot accomplish when we perform solo - so Wariki is a kind of symphony.

Improving one's own art, feeling other's power, and appreciating each other - here appears Wariki (the power of harmony).

We hope you enjoy the world of Wariki - the art of Japan (Wa), and the harmony (Wa) of sounds and spirits.”

Musical Backgrounds of Wariki Members:

In accordance with the ideology of Warabi-za, the actors are trained to perform traditional performances such as Nihon-buyo (Japanese Traditional Dance), Kagura (Japanese Traditional Dance), and hayashi (Traditional Drums). As a trained performer, Mr.Katogi also grew up learning the Traditional Performing Arts in all over Japan. So as other members of Wariki, who apprenticed many years under master performers of ningen-kokuho (Awarded as a Living Cultural Treasure).

Eastern European Tours:

Last year they toured in Eastern Europe for the first time. The tour was a great success, so that they were requested to make another tour earlier this year. This time they extended the tour to a few more countries in the conflict-ridden Balkan region. Because of the unstable political and safety situation in this area, the tour had to be well prepared on the route. However, with their strong belief that traditional arts such as performing arts can transcend the ethnic borders and cultural differences, they were sponsored by prominent institutions like Japan Foundation and even the Japanese Embassies!

Overseas Reaction:

Although Wariki is almost unknown in the Balkan regions, they were welcomed by full of audience at sold-out shows! The overseas media also praised Wariki’s performances. Dnevni List in Sarajevo reported that the Wariki performance was the first to have been organized to show traditional Japanese dance and music in the region, but there were many people  asking for additional chairs for the rare opportunity. It also reported that Mr. Katogi commented that he even felt as if they had been performing in front of Japanese audience. “I am very lhappy beause of anyone who was present understood the message and the essence of (Wariki’s) music and dance.

Domestic Reaction:

At home, Wariki’s great success has been featured in the local newspapers as well. Akita Sakigake Shinpo reported that at the tour finale in Kosovo on February 20th, they performed in front of 500 audiences and received warm applause from them. After the performance, Mr.Katogi has commented, “we have toured in the post-conflict zones. We understand that there were many people who were harmed in the conflicts, but hopefully we could deliver some comforting moment.” An audience commented, “Flutes and taikos are similar to some instruments in Kosovo. The similarity made me think closer to Japan.” Wariki communicated beyond cultures through their performances.

Next Wariki Performance in Semboku City:

Now Wariki has come back to the home, Semboku City. They are scheduling a Charity Performance on Sunday, June 19th at Semboku City Audtitorium! It will be a first come-back show after they returned from the East European Tour in winter! More Information

Main Casts of Warabi-za's Latest Play, Omoide Poroporo.

Warabi-za plays feature excellent actors! As we have mentioned before, the Warabi-za’s actors are highly selective from all over Japan! They are trained to act, sing, and dance!

Mieno and Usui play Toshio and Taeko.

In Omoide Poroporo (おもいでぽろぽろ）, Ryoko Usui　(碓井 涼子) plays Taeko, who takes a journey to rediscover herself in rural country of Tohoku. Usui is originally from Toyama Prefecture. She gained nationwide popularity in the 2005 tour of Ginga-tetsudo-no-Yoru (銀河鉄道の夜) for a supporting role. Her latest accomplishment was playing Maria in Atomu (“Astro Boy”) last year. She is known for her physical beauty and her angelic singing.

Mieno Aoi (三重野　葵）plays Toshio, who Taeko meets in Yamagata. Mieno is a native of Semboku City, Akita Pref. He debuted in 2002. He played the main role in “Bocchan” in an opening of Bocchan Gekijo, a Warabi-za’s satellite theater in Ehime Pref. At home, he has played two roles in Atomu and participated in the national tour!

Warabi-za actors can act, sing, and dance! Warabi-za themes are taken from the Japanese traditional culture (especially reflecting the rich arts of Tohoku region). The actors are trained to play instruments and dance in the traditional manner. Their musical performances leave you an unforgettable impression, transcending languages and cultures!

 

Chibli's Vertuoso, Kazuo Oga, is the Art Director of the Warabi-za Play!

Omoide Poroporo （おもいでぽろぽろ） is a new musical play of Warabi-za Theater Company, which is based on a Ghibli Studio Animation. The original animated film was written and directed by Isao Takahata.

The art director was an Akita native, Kazuo Oga, who has created many artworks for the Ghibli works including Princess Mononoke, Totoro, and Omoide Poroporo. Now once again after 20 years, he created artworks for the same story - now for the Warabi-za! He says, “I did not expect another chance to paint safflowers ever again. I am looking forward to the musical version.”

Tazawako Art Village (where the Warabi-za Theater is located) has been hosting small exhibitions of Mr. Oga’s works at Onsen Yupopo. Also, in recent years, Mr. Oga has been designing labels for some bottles of Tazawako Beer.

He also designed a special beer label commemorating the Omoide Poroporo production that commemorates the Warabi-za’s 60th anniversary!

The First Ghibli Production to Become a Musical Play!

Gekidan Warabi-za (“Warabiza Theater Company”) has been celebrating the 60th anniversary. Their newest musical play is called “Omoide Poroporo,” which is based on a Studio Ghibli Production in 1991 directed by Isao Takahata. It was the very first Ghibli Animation, which has become a theater play!

“Omoide Poroporo” takes place in Tohoku region. Taeko is a 27 years-old woman who works in Tokyo. She takes a vacation to visit Yamagata Prefecture to visit the family of her sister’s husband in Yamagata Prefecture. There, she meets safflower farmers, experience a way of rural living, and gains a new perspective in life.

Here is a Youtube trailer of the original Ghibli Anime, Omoide Poroporo (“Only Yesterday”) !

The Warabi-za version features traditional festival music and shishimai (“lion dance”). The feeling of nature in the forests and rivers is expressed by body movements on stage.

The Warabiza Performance has started on May 8th and continues till July 22nd. After the pause during the national tour, they will come back to Akita on August 21st and stay till January 3rd. Check for the schedule and the ticket information on their official website or call 0187-44-3939.

Sakura Beer for Your Cherry Blossoms Viewing

Hanami  (花見）, cherry blossoms viewing, always accompany with food and Sake. So, for your choice of rice wine, we recommend Sakura Hirahira, light pink Sake specially brewed using Sakura-colored Koji by Hideyoshi, one of the oldest Sake breweries of Japan.

So what about BEER under the cherry blossoms? Take  Sakura Beer!

Sakura Beer is produced using the wild-yeast extracted from cherry blossoms petals, which gives reddish brown color and the distinctive flowery aroma. The bitterness is mild and easy to drink.

Tazawako Beer brews excellent quality craft beer of Japan. They brew regular types of beers like altbier, kolsch, dark lager, and pilsener. Also, they brew other special craft beers like W chocolate bock around Valentine’s Day.

(No photos here, but just look for the label at the restaurant shop.)

Tazawako Beer Restaurant is located adjacent to Warabi-za Theater in Tazawako Art Village. It would be a perfect place to ease your thirst and hunger after watching a performance at the theater. Tazawako Beer Restaurant serve western-style dishes like pasta, pizza, hamburgs, etc., while the next building is Bakkya, where traditional Akita cuisines are served.

Tazawako Beer has been reopening since April 9th. Until April 22nd, the business is open only during the lunch time (11a.m. to 14 p.m.), and after April 23rd, it will be on the regular business hours as in 11 a.m. to 21p.m.

Tazawako Beer is also a member of Japan Craft Beer Association (JCBA) and have been accepting donations for the earthquake/disaster victims through a link on the website.

Kakunodate Town's Bukeyashiki-dori  is one of the viewing spots of Semboku City!

"ATERUI" Opens with a Promise to Encourage the Tohoku

ATERUI, a new production of Warabi-za Theater Company, has just opened yesterday April 10 at its home theater, Warabi-za Theater in Semboku City. The play has been produced to commemorate the company’s 60th anniversary. The final rehearsal was held on the day before, at which the casts and staffs showed an enthusiastic stage performance before the media reporters, a local newspaper reported.

The original novel by Katsuhiko Takahashi, Hion Kita-no-yousei Aterui (火怨　北の燿星アテルイ; literally, “Aterui, the Shining Star in the North”) portrays the 8-9th century hero, Aterui, who fought to protect the emishi people (Tohoku’s indeginous people) from the conquerors of the Japanese central government led by a commander, Sakanoue-Tamuramaro, who is depicted in this novel as a childhood friend of Aterui.

Warabi-za’s Takao Nakamura (中村哮夫, age 79) comments, “The way how the emishi people contends against the conquerors overlaps with the strive of Tohoku people in the current catastrophic situation.” Miro Ebisumoto (戎本みろ, age 41), who plays Aterui, adds, “we believe this play gives courage to the victims in the disaster.”

ATERUI has opened on April 10 and continues till May 4; after a brief interval due to the national tour, it will return to the home theater on July 26th and played till August 16th. For more information, please call Warabi-za Telephone 0187-44-3939.

MORE POSTS ON ATERUI

ATERUI (Photo/Warabi-za)

Warabi-za's New Production, ATERUI: A Story About Unity of Tohoku to Persevere in the Difficult Time

ATERUI is a new Warabi-za production which will open on April 10th. The play was originally created 10 years ago; now it has returned to the theater again with new casts to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Warabi-za’s establishment.

Recent weeks tourism and entertainment businesses still have been voluntarily restricting the operation, considering the current circumstances of national catastrophe (read related post), Warabi-za, on cotrast, has decided to continue this production, since the members strongly believe its theme has a message that would directly speaks to the mind of people at this time in need of unity and empowerment to reconstruct Tohoku region.

ATERUI, Warabi-za's New Production About Tohoku. (Photo/Warabi-za)

Warabi-za has decided to promote Aterui,

believing that the message would speak to the Tohoku in need of unity.

(Courtesy of Warabi-za)

Aterui was a military chief of "emishi", an indigenous ethnic group of Tohoku region. He is said to have led the troops in Iwate Prefecture to fight against the conquerors from the central Yamato government in attempt to protect the pride and dignity of the Tohoku people. His epic story has been told in folklores and historical literatures, as well as plays and anime in our modern times.

Warabi-za’s ATERUI is a musical play about him and his childhood friend, Tamuramaro, who now has been appointed as the Grand General of Conquering East-Barbarians (“emishi”). At the foot of Mt. Iwate, Aterui and Tamuramaro confronts to battle. In an attempt to remind his friend of the importance of  homeland, Aterui brings up an old conversation: 'emishi' must mean poem of a river that is as large as motherly love.

The story is themed around love and unity of humanity. Surprisingly, it perfectly coincides with the current circumstances of Tohoku area. That is why Warabi-za is proudly promoting this play...

ATERUI

April 10 - May 4, 2011. At Warabi-za Gekijo

May 14-15, 2011. At Iwate Shimin Kaikan

May 14th- March 2012. Tour in Japan.

Inquiries/Reservation: Warabi-za Yoyaku Center (TEL: 0187-44-3939)

 

 

Other Ways to Support the Tohoku Areas!

Thank you for all the support by donations to the Tohoku Area.
Now almost a month has passed since the devastating 3.11 earthquake.

Tourism and Entertainment Industries to Encourage People in Tohoku:

In the first few weeks, many businesses in Japan had voluntarily minimized the business to show the condolence and respect to the victims in the disaster-stricken areas. Some foreigners may have found this confusing, but this is according to the cultural code in Japan. Festivity in time of mourning is commonly considered to be rude in our Japanese culture. That refrainment affects even more severely in the tourism and entertainment industry. People are travelling and eating out less, which has been causing a significant secandary damage to our economy.

However, because this is a difficult time for everyone, such industries like tourims and entertainment should be showing perseverance. After all, it is what we do: to entertain, encourage, and inspire people! Those industries have an immense power bringing up the spirits of those who are in need!

Supporting Our Fellow Tohoku Areas from Here, Akita and Tazawako:

Many businesses in Tazawako Area have been persevering in this time of difficulty. For instance, Warabi-za Theater Company  has been promoting a new production, ATERUI, whose theme surprisingly coincides with the present circumstances. It is to inspire and encourage the Tohoku region in this difficult time. Hotels in Tazawako like Kyukamura Nyuto-Onsenkyo and Sanrokuso are accepting guests with adjusted price. Other smaller souvenir shops like Bee Skep have been keeping it up as well.

Akita Prefecture has been fortunate to have only minimum damage, except for the temporary shortage of water, electricity, and fuels. Akita Airport has been operating with increased number of flights to support the supply shipments. Many Akita people are volunteering and donating food and supplies to the affected areas. Meanwhile, the government has been arranging to sheltering evacuees from the disaster-stricken areas. Many evacuees are being sheltered at hotels in Tazawako area as well.

What Else We Can All Do to Support the Tohoku Industries:

All the news about disasters and radiation problems are scary enough to steer you away. Understandable! But here is our plea to you: Please do not forget that Tohoku is a beautiful country, where the most untouched nature and rustic villages are hidden. You would be welcomed in heartwarming unforgettable experiences!

So what else can we all do? The answer is simple: Keep up our normal life!

Like in April, we can go to hanami (“flower viewing”) and enjoy Tohoku's great sake, rice, vegetables, and fish! Eat out at your local restaurants and enjoy your food of Tohoku. Take a train trip! Check out some beautiful traditional crafts of Tohoku!

All these efforts (and enjoyment) would be a support to our farming, sake, fishing, transportation, and crafts industries in Tohoku!

So please continue and enjoy your support!

Synopsis of "Propose," A Chekov Play in Akita Dialect

Warabi-za takes its pride in representing Japanese folk traditions in forms of theatrical play. This time, they take a play written by Anton Chekov, a classic Russian playwright, with adaption to reflect the regional culture.

The content heavily reflects Semboku City's regional culture. The vernacular language plays a big part in this work, to an extent that some of the content is not transferrable in any other languages -- even in standard Japanese! This happens often in Warabi-za works as it was in Yamagami-sama no Okurimono, a play about bear hunters.

You will be given a handout with a word list of Akita dialect, which you may or may not be using. The Warabi-za works entertains audience beyond the languages, but reading synopsis might give lead you to a better understanding of the play.

"Propose" (Traler):

4 Charactors:

KUMAZAWA, GORO-ZAEMON
Old landlord who lives with his unmarried daughter. He desperately wishes her to find anyone to marry, because that would also allow him to marry his young girlfriend without any constraint.

KUMAZAWA, MOMOE
Goro-zaemon’s daughter. She wants to get married but has nobody. She is self-centered and has strongest desire for a marriage.

YASUSHI, NISHIKI

Momoe’s neighbor. A man with rich career aspirations. He is preparing for the next election to become an assembly member in his village. He approaches Momoe to make a marriage proposal, but the situation makes an unexpected turn and become an argument.

IZUMO, MIYAKO

Goro-zaemon’s fiancé. Her engagement to Goro-zaemon has not been anounced to Momoe yet, so that Miyako is brought to the house as a Tai Chi instructor. She wishes to have a passionate life with Goro-zaemon as soon as possible.

Synopsis of "Propose":

The story takes place in a town in Semboku City, Akita Prefecture. The Nishiki Family and The Kumasawa Family live next to each other.

The story unfolds from a scene in which Yasushi, a son of the Nishiki, approaches Goro-zaemon Kumasawa to get a permission of a marriage proposal to Momoe, Goro-zaemon's daughter; however, Yasushi is so nervous to reveal his intentions, so  that the father at first misunderstands that Yasushi came to borrow some money.

Later, Goro-zaemon understands the situation and happy to find out Yasushi's intention was to marry his daughter. He is even more delighted because that enables him to marry his girlfriend.

For this is a rare chance Goro-zaemon tries to match up his daughter with Yasushi, but Yasushi’s inability to communicate again becomes an obstacle. The fact that they are neighbors worsened the situation, bringing out arguments —now over the ownership of a mountain.

Miyako enters the scene and trys to intervene the situation but ends up a failure. Now Yasushi is told to get out of the house.

The Kumasawa cannot hold their anger against the Nishiki Family. Momoe, however, finally finds out Yasushi’s intention to marry her, so she starts to regret. Now Momoe desperately pleads to her father for bringing  back Yasushi. Her father is now completely perplexed.

Yasushi is brought back. Momoe now shows affections towards him. Momoe has a strong desire to get married, so she makes great efforts to reconcile the broken relationship. When Yasushi tells his experience in theater; Momoe is romantically hallucinating in the world of Cyrano de Bergerac.

The story seems to end happily ever after, but there comes another quarrel—now over their dogs!

Will Yasushi and Momoe ever get married?

How Warabi-za Has Come About and Its Principles

Warabi-za Theater Company is one of a kind in representing Japanese folk art tradition in forms of theatrical performances. (For example, see how indigenous tradition of bear hunters are represented. )They perform thousands of shows every year all over Japan. Finding out how this amazing place has come about will give you a better experience when visiting Tazawako Art Village.

(Below is an insert from a written material available for foreign guests upon request.

 Here it is provided by the courtesy of Warabi-za Theater Company.)

What is Gekidan Warabi-za?

Gekidan Warabiza (Warabi-za Theater Company) was formed in 1951—right in the midst of the revitalization after WWII.

The predecessor, Umi-tsubame, was formed by Taro Hara with an aim to “console the shattered heart of Japanese people by a tune of min-yo,”— a style of Japanese accompanied folk singing.

Umi-tsubame, which was a professional theatrical group Hara formed in Tokyo, relocated the head-quarter to the current site in Akita Prefecture, for the area was known as “min-yo min-bu no houko,” a treasure trove of folk songs and dances.

That was in 1953 and also when the group renamed itself Warabi-za with a wish to become empowerment in the live of people -- just like wild warabi (fiddleheads ferns) that saved farmers from hunger.

Foundation of Warabi-za Theater:

While Warabi-za had traveled to perform throughout the country, the members started to wish to own their own theater at Home. Despite of the criticism that such a large-scale theater can be managed only in urban settings, the members were passionately driven and initiated a fundraising campaign. As a result, with contributions by 8,000,000 citizens, Warabi-za Theater was born.

For a while, Warabi-za Theater had remained as a place for experimental performing arts; however, it was only until 1993 when the company took a tour to Ashland, Oregon, and Mineapolis, Minnesota, to study American theater management.

The members returned home with a new vision on theater management: A theater’s mission should be clarified and closely tied to the community and whose audience is to be prioritized. This notion had become the very foundation of Warabi-za’s theater management.

In 1995, the first long-run musical performance had finally begun. In a town whose population was only 14,000 people (formerly known as Tazawako Town), more than 35,000 had attended to 168 shows in the first year alone. Today Warabi-za performs more frequently, and nearly 300 shows are held in a year at both small and large theaters in the facility.

Warabi-za's Fundamental Principles:

Warabi-za Theater Company contributes to the community and society, based on the following principles:

CREATIVITY: We create theatrical arts deeply rooted in the traditional culture of Japan, Tohoku, Akita, and Semboku regions that also reflects the heart of people who live in the modern times. We aim to create “a theater whose works are for both international and domestic audiences,” -- to become an anchor of unique production and art appreciation.

CULTIVATION: Through activities such as stage performances and workshops, we aim to cultivate artists, staffs, and connoisseurs of theater arts. We also maintain “a theater open to the regional community” that supports diverse creative activity regardless of genre.

CONTRIBUTION: We aim to become the center for community involvement in fields of culture, social welfare, tourism, and educational activities. We also aim to become “a theater that is deeply rooted in the community,” which contributes to the cultural and economical development of the community.

“Propose,” An Adapted Chekov Play in Akita Dialect.

Warabi-za Theater Company has just announced a new play, Propose.

This play was originally performed in a smaller scale in 2004. It was a smash hit play, which has recently made a come-back with a larger production. It is also to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the original Russian playwright, Anton Chekov.

“Propose” is adapted from Chekov’s one-act farce, A Marriga Proposal with a twist of Akita’s local culture. Although the dialogue is heavily infused with Akita’s vernacular language, the content transcends the ethnic barriers and communicates with multicultural audiences. As a matter of fact, it has been entertaining groups of foreign students and travelers.

Reservation: 

Call Warabi-za (+81-187-44-3915) or e-mail at gekijo@warabiza.or.jp

Prices:

 Pre-sale 3,615 yen/ On the day 4,200 yen. (Adult)

For a better deal? 

A package including a ticket, lunch, and bathing at Onsen inside the same facility (Tazawako Art Village)

is available for only 5,200 yen per adult. Inquire Warabi-za.

Talented Performers of Warabi-za!

Warabi-za, Tazawako's theater company, is proud to present high-quality performances. Prospective actors come from all over Japan to try out for an audition to join the Warabi-za actors.

The casts of Yamagami-Sama No Okurimono!

This play features a young talent on the rise of popularity. He is Hiroki Suzuki (鈴木 裕樹；Center top above) who plays Yanosuke (弥之助）. He can dance, sing, and play musical instruments (a Japanese flute in this case), while he touches your heart and move you with emotions. Suzuki was featured as the leading character in his most recent work, a romantic comedy about Jindai Curry. Since his debut in 2009, he has been rapidly but firmly establishing his reputation to soon become recognized nationwide!

Sayo is played by Aya Takada, born in Akita and raised in Gifu Pref., has a strong background in folk music. She has been travelling with Warabi-za to Korea and USA and has been mesmerizing the crowd with her beautiful vocal and powerful dance. Shigezo is played by Tetsu Watanabe, who has been highly rated as a leading actor for many James Miki works.

Yamagami-Sama No Okurimono
READ SYNOPSIS

Casts in the photos. Takada (top in kimono) and Suzuki (bottom).

Also as a special guest, Mr. Kadowaki, Semboku City Mayor!  (top right)

Schedule:

In theater until November 3. 2010 at Warabi-Za Theater.

Available at 10:30 and 14:00 on most days.

Tickets:

Tickets are on sale via e-mail, online, and telephone, and at the box office.

ALSO:

Don't forget-- Warabi-za is located in Tazawako Art Village, a multi-purpose facility whose restaurants offer you the internationally-awarded beer (Tazawako Beer).

You can easily spend a whole day so, a day-trip ticket with a show, a meal and onsen (available from 5,200 yen) is highly recommended!

PREVIEW:

Synopsis of Yamagami-sama (Warabi-Za)

“Yamagami-sama No Okurimono” (山神様のおくりもの) has been a long-run hit play for a decade with different casts. First, watch the TV commercial below.

This play has been very popular for a long time. It is inspired by an authentic folklore culture of bear hunting. Does the tradition of matagi, beer-hunting, sounds intriguing but also intimidating?  No worries—it is not about killing an animal. It is a drama about common people!!

Synopsis  of Yamagami-sama No Okurimono:

SEE THE PHOTOS OF STAGE

The story takes place in a beautiful mountainous village in Akita. There lived an old man, Shigezo, with his grand-daughter, Sayo. Shigezo had been widely famed as the master matagi, a traditional beer hunter. While he abruptly quit 17 years ago, he had taken care of his colleague’s son, Yanosuke , to pass down the hunting technique to bring him up as a grown man. Sayo had been fond of him -- if he is her own brother-- and also expects him to become one someday.

Despite all the high expectation as Shigezo’s apprentice, Yanosuke –on the other hand—is reluctant to hunt. His inability is becoming a frustration and disappointment to his colleagues. With his compassionate nature, his heart belongs to-- not the mountains --but somewhere else.

Meanwhile, a young, successful matagi called Kuma (lit. meaning  "a bear") had requested Shigezo for a permission to marry Sayo. In reply to his aggressive attitude, Shigezo insists that patience is an important way of matagi. He tells his grand-daughter, “choose whoever knows how to handle life.”

Now—Yanosuke, after finding out Kuma's proposal to Sayo, confronts with Sayo and finally confesses his wish to move out of town with her, only to hear that Sayo wouldn't want to leave the beloved hometown.

At a fall festival, Kuma picks up a challenge against Yanosuke over a marriage to Sayo -- "Whoever hunts down an Itazu ("a bear") would prove a better match with Sayo." However, Yanosuke remains reluctant, "the mountain is a sacred place-- not a battle field over such matter."

Soon winter arrives. Kuma is so impatient that he takes a risk and rushes into the cold mountain-- only to return home injured instead. Now, the whole village is in peril. The villagers are at risk. What would become of them? Which man would Sayo choose to marry?

Schedule:

In Warabi-za Theater until November 3. 2010

Morning (at 10:30 ) and afternoon (at 14:00) shows are available on most days.

Reservation:

At Warabi-za Theater. Tickets are on sale via e-mail, online, and telephone, and at the box office.

A package with a ticket, meal and onsen is available from 5,200 yen! (Recommended!)

Access:

Take JR Kakunodate Station;

Free Warabi-za shuttle buses are available. Ask Warabi-za.

Authentic Story of Bear Hunters

"Yamagami-sama.." is a story inspired by folklores in Akita. It is not about a samurai or a shogun— but the farmers and hunters that are more ordinary and common. Their stories are less represented in media and may not appear as elaborated, but our folklore culture has a rich tradition of art and music cultivated in the farmer’s life.

Folklore culture is what Warabi-za proudly represents in their performances. They have 7 performing groups travelling all over Japan and overseas at more than 1,200 stages in a year. (Details in English) 

Warabi-za even owns a folk art research center with a rare collection of documents and recorded materials, which is also dedicated in an effort to make the dramas more authentic to the cultural background. No wonder the company has been awarded repeatedly by the national and prefectural governments.

Minzoku Geijutsu Kenkyu-sho (民族芸術研究所）

You might be concerned about the language. Yes, Warabi-za plays are all in Japanese. But consider, their performance is musical and often in Akita dialect, so that even native Japanese speakers might not understand every word. The performance group travel overseas and perform and still receives great reviews. There is a reason!

Particularly in “Yamagami-sama..,” many terms are unfamiliar to even native Akita people-- Like the word, “Matagi” that refers to professional bear hunters who worshiped the deity of mountain and lived by the respective code: "Follow the rules of life cycle, transmigration of souls, and harmony in the Great Nature."

Another word you will repeatedly hear is, Itazu, which means "a bear." The strict code of Matagi had prohibited using common "town" terminology as opposed to the "mountain". Itazu is said to derive from Itachi, a mustlid, suggesting that such beast deserves as little fear as a tiny animal. Also, the code prohibited women from entering the mountain, because the deity is female and extremely jealous. That is why Yanosuke insists that “the mountain is no such place for a battle over a woman.”

Merchandises of the play is available! Find your own matagi and itazu goods...

Knowing the background culture would help you enjoy Warabi-za plays. Perhaps, it could be the very inspiration to learn more about the rural culture!!

A Long-Run Hit Play at Warabi-Za

Warabi-za is a theater company whose headquarter is located in Tazawako Art Village. Or, should we say that Tazawako Art Village is Warabi-za’s headquarter? (Japanese Official Website)

Anyway, Warabi-za is not like any others-- whose dedication to the preservation of Japanese traditional folk arts is both nationally and internationally recognized. In the course of 60 years history, Warabi-za has established its own multi-purpose facility like onsen, restaurants and hotel-- only in an effort to support their own theater group.

Yamagami-Sama No Okurimono (山神様のおくりもの）

is currently in Warabi-za Theater.

This is a story inspired by a local tradition of bear hunting (matagi). A very unique theme and only Warabi-za can do a great job on such theme!! Yamagami-sama no Okurimono is a long-run hit play of Warabi-za since 1999. Now with new actors, it has been growing its popularity again!

Warabi-za Theater!

Schedule:
In theater until November 3. 2010.

Morning (at 10:30 ) and afternoon (at 14:00) shows are available on most days.

Reservation:

Tickets are on sale via e-mail, online, and telephone, and at the box office.

A package with a ticket, a meal and onsen is available from 5,200 yen! Recommended!

Access:  

Warabi-za Theater is easily accessed from JR Kakundoate Station.
Just take the direct shuttle bus to Warabi-za., available about 10 trips a day.
(see map and bus time table)

Official Website of "Atomu", Warabi-Za's New Play

Warabi-Za is the local theater company Semboku City is proud of. I wrote a post on their new play that's coming out in April 17th, "Atomu" based on the Japan's #1 Anime pioneer Astro Boy!

The company just released an official website of "Atomu".  It seems there will be photos and videos on the website. Too bad, it's only in Japanese at this moment; but, perhaps later the site might go international after a huge success domestically.  Let's cross our fingers, but I bet it will!

According to the website, Osamu Tezuka was an enthiastic supporter of the company. Since the founder's wife, Yuko Hara, had met Tezuka in a college performance group, Tezuka had been considerate as a supportive member of Warabi-Za community. (Wow! Who knew?)

There is tons of interesting facts you could learn from the website, so stay in tune!

Official Websie of "Atomu": http://www.warabi.jp/atom/special/