"Exploring Body Awareness and Noh Power through Noh Movements!"
Witness the true essence of Japanese strength with a history spanning 650 years!
Japan's cherished tradition, Noh. Within it lies the deeply preserved 'pure Japanese movements,' largely forgotten by modern society. Analyzing these physical exercises akin to martial arts, we reclaim stable, harmonious movements.
Renowned Noh actor and head of the Kanze school, Motonori Umewaka, demonstrates these movements, elucidated by Tomoki Kawano, a martial artist and body movement researcher. A must-see for contemporary Japanese!
Contents:
- Introduction: Understanding the lumbar spine
- Study of Noh movements:
- Posture during standing, seating positions (seiza, shimoza, anza), and walking techniques
- Vocalization techniques using the lumbar spine, including chanting from the Noh piece "Takasago," and discussions on Noh vocalization
- Tools utilized in Noh: Masks, fans, and swords
- Bonus footage: Highlights from the dance performance "Ama no Iwato"
Filming cooperation provided by the Umewaka Association
Instructor and Supervisor: Motonori Umewaka (Noh actor, holder of Important Intangible Cultural Asset designation) Born as the eldest son of the prestigious Umewaka family, continuing the legacy from the Muromachi period. Started performing on stage at the age of 3 under the guidance of his father, and has since actively performed as a child actor. He participates in numerous performances across Japan, as well as international tours, dedicated to promoting traditional Japanese performing arts, especially Noh. He organizes performances aimed at both his own artistic improvement and expanding the audience base. Additionally, he serves as a lecturer for various cultural programs commissioned by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, including teaching children's dance and music classes.
Guide and Commentary: Tomoki Kawano From a young age, studied various martial arts such as Kendo, Karate, and Chinese martial arts. Also delved into Japanese body manipulation techniques derived from Sotai-ho, Noguchi Seitai, esoteric Buddhism, and ancient Shinto practices. Developed concepts including Shin-Do (the way of the heart), Kaikifho (physical fitness method), Movement Studies (body theory), Nico Nico Touch Therapy (manual technique), and Chisetto (training method). Actively engaged in activities across Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. Founder of the Free People Network. Author of several books including "Japanese Power," "Understanding Japanese Power through Noh" (BAB Japan), "Enhancing Vitality through Body Manipulation Techniques" (Keizai Kai), and "Health-enhancing Whole-body Martial Arts" (Chikuma Shobo).
