Seeking performers for Tokyo Caravan in Kumamoto!

“Tokyo Caravan” began in 2015 as part of Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s Leading Project, which serves as the lead-in to the Cultural Program of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Devised by playwright, director and actor Hideki Noda under the concept of engendering new forms of expression through the mingling of cultures produced by encounters between a diverse array of artists, this Japan-wide initiative sees artists engaging in performances that transcend their respective genres.

“Tokyo Caravan in Kumamoto” is being put together by choreographer/dancer Ryohei Kondo, who heads the Condors. Performers from Kumamoto include Yamaga Tourou Dance, Kumamoto Prefectural Taiko Federation Team, and Kumamoto Prefectural Amakusa Takushin High School Kyodogeino-club. Adding to the festive spirit at Kumamoto Castle will be performances by the Kumamoto Music Caravan band, a gathering of artists from various genres. Members include Takasada Inada on tenor saxophone, Eri Konishi on the accordion, Shuichiro Sakaguchi on trumpet, singer-songwriter Tamurapan, vocalist and traditional paper cutting artist Chanky Matsumoto, Leo Nanjo on percussion, Ryotaro “Pom” Uto on bass and band leader Kaya Okada on alto saxophone.

A Caravan unit led by dancer/choreographer Ryohei Kondo will travel around Kumamoto from Monday (public holiday) October 9 until Friday 13. This mobile Tokyo Caravan in Kumamoto will channel its encounters with the culture, people and history of various places in the region into music and dance-based interactions with local people ahead of the finale performance on Sunday 15 at Kumamoto Castle’s Ninomaru Square.
Organizers are looking for people who who would like to perform or play something at the performance being held on Sunday, October 15. All genres are welcome, but applicants should think of themselves as performers. If you’re interested, please don’t hesitate to apply. Ryohei Kondo is looking forward to new encounters with you.

Click here for more information on Tokyo Caravan in Kumamoto.