JCC E-Magazine August 2024

Mr Naya Reitoku performing Shukusai no Mai, Dance of Festivals.

The dancers from Reitoku Kai Nihonbuyo performing Tenryuu Kudareba, Down the Tenryuu River.

On 6 July 2024, JCC hosted a Nihonbuyo (Japanese classical dance) performance by the Reitoku Kai Nihonbuyo dance group. The Grand Master of Reitoku Kai, Mr Naya Reitoku, gave a short presentation on the origins of Nihonbuyo and how it evolved over the eras. He also explained about the two different types of Nihonbuyo which are Odori - demonstrative and danced to a vivid rhythm - and Mai - a more gentle dance imbued with emotion.

For many of the guests, it was their first time watching a Nihonbuyo performance and they were in for a treat. The performers of that afternoon - consisting of 14 dancers from Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan - showcased a variety of dances which flaunted the versatility and showmanship of Nihonbuyo. The elegance of each dance combined with the colourful costumes and props were a spectacle for the audience. The group performed a total of 14 dances and dedicated the last dance, Tenryu Kudareba, to JCC in commemoration of its 15th Anniversary.

It was inspiring to watch Mr Naya Reitoku’s young disciples, some of whom had only been dancing for 2 months, perform their dances in front of a wonderful turnout. The dancers received great applause from the audience, who had an enjoyable time watching the performance.

You may check this video for the highlights of the event too.

Mr Naya Reitoku giving a presentation.		Mr Naya Reitoku demonstrating the many ways a fan is used in Nihonbuyo.
The Reitoku Kai Nihonbuyo performers standing by.		Mr Aaron Chong performing Echigo Jishi, The Lion Dances of Echigo.
Ms Kohane Wakayagi performing Ume no Kaori, The Scent of Plum Blossoms.		Ms Nitsuki Wakayagi performing Fuji Ondo, Ballad of the Wisteria.
Ms Chen Xi performing Tsurukame, The Crane and the Tortoise.		JCC Director Ms Akiko Kawabe with the Reitoku Kai Nihonbuyo performers.

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