(toskanews) – In the background of a cascade of cherry blossomsthe geishas glide gracefully across the stage: a Kyotothe arrival of spring is celebrated with a show that has more than 150 years. Dressed with light blue kimonos decorated with floral motifsthe dancers move and twirl in unison in front of hundreds of spectators who have come to watch the traditional performance Miyako Odorior «Capital dance», in the ancient imperial capital of Japan.
The Miyako Odori: symbol of spring in Kyoto
“The Miyako Odori it’s a symbol of spring in Kyoto. Just as people eagerly await the cherry blossoms, Kyoto residents sense the arrival of spring by participating in the Miyako Odori. I have the feeling that today, spectators from all over the world come and discover and experience Japanese spring”, he said Kyoko Sugiuradirector of the geisha school Yasaka Nyokoba Gakuen.
The commitment to pass on culture
«It’s not just about wearing a beautiful kimono, about paint your face white (oshirai) or style your hair in a traditional bun. Beyond appearance, there is a considerable daily commitment to protect and pass on traditional Japanese culture. This includes not only dance, but also lo shamisensinging, percussion, flute and drum tsuzumi…», he added.
Geiko and Maiko: the custodians of traditional craftsmanship
«It is precisely thanks to the activity and energy of the Geiko and of Maiko (apprentice geisha, ed.) that we continue to create new costumes, obi (kimono belts) and hairpins (kanzashi). This also supports the production of makeup, accessories and even traditional socks (tabi). While the use of kimono is in decline and these craft industries tend to disappear, the active presence of Geiko and of Maiko maintains constant demand that keeps the entire sector alive,” he concluded.
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