The KIZUNA event for April, held on the 25th at j-Pod (International Seminar House), was an English rakugo show featuring Sayohime, a female performer active mainly in the Kansai region.
The event began with Sayohime explaining the origins of the rakugo comic storytelling and the concept of ochi (punchline). She then demonstrated some of the hand and body gestures used to enact different characters.
Following this introduction, she performed a classic story, "Chiritotechin", in English. Her powerful performance vividly conveyed the humor of the characters' dialogue, and elicited frequent laughter from the culturally diverse audience.
Next, she led a rakugo workshop, in which participants practiced a short story, with some going on the stage to perform it in front of the others.
Everyone enjoyed the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese comic storytelling and mingle with other participants.
Watching Sayohime's performance
Practicing rakugo
Performing a short story on the stage
Sayohime and event participants
Related links
- Event details
http://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en/about/events_news/office/kyoiku-suishin-gakusei-shien/kokusai-kyoiku-koryu/event/2016/170425_1300.html - Student Lounge KIZUNA
http://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en/education-campus/international/facilities/kizuna - Past KIZUNA events
http://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en/education-campus/international/facilities/kizuna/event/
