Sangaku is an art form that traveled across Eurasia, along the Silk Road to Japan in the 8th century. It’s a combination of various performing arts, including music, dance, acrobatics, juggling, impersonation, plays, magic tricks, and puppet shows. Over the years, Sangaku performances have all but faded from memory. Today, this group featuring Kodo alumnus Masayuki Sakamoto on taiko is bringing a modern interpretation to audiences of this visionary performance art, “Gendai Sangaku” (Contemporary Sangaku). Based on illustrations and other records that describe this performance art, the troupe channels its essence into a modern form. Using Japanese instruments including orin (brass bells), bamboo flutes, sho (Japanese wind instrument), and taiko, coupled with Turkish and Western instruments, the cast will play music that evokes the international, intercultural exchange along the Silk Road. A narrator will share comical stories and beautiful poems in Japanese, and you’ll be treated to spectacular juggling acts, too. Prepare to be captivated by this extraordinary new performance at Shiroyama Park.

Photos: Yoshihiro Abe

Aug. 17 (Sat) 14:00–15:00

Shiroyama Park

・There are no multi-concert passes for Shiroyama Park Sessions. ・Preschoolers (ages 5 & under) receive free admission ・Add ¥500 for rush tickets. ■ Adults ¥3,500 ■ Ages 6–14 ¥1,000

Yutaka Ota (Flute, Saxophone, Orin / Artistic Director) Takeaki Bunno (Sho, Violin) Kiyoshi Ohira (Saz) Masayuki Sakamoto (Taiko) Tomohiro Morita (Juggling) Tsunehiro Hayashi (Narrator)

*Concerts will proceed rain or shine. However, if the presenter deems the concert cannot be held due to foreseeable danger or possible safety concerns due to the weather conditions, the concert may be canceled or postponed. We appreciate your understanding in regards to any unexpected changes due to the above reasons.

Ticket sales start on June 12 (Wed) Buy Shiroyama Park Session Tickets

This year, join us at our favorite hilltop venue for the all-new Shiroyama Park Sessions: three mini concerts on Aug. 17 (Sat) and 18 (Sun). Come along to enjoy exciting performances by an eclectic lineup of talented artists in a lush, green park setting. There’s plenty of space so you can sit back, relax, and get recharged by live music and nature.