Experience Japanese culture and learn about traditional Noh theatre and its accoutrements on Wednesday, June 25 from 3 to 5 p.m. at Lamanda Park Branch Library, 140 S. Altadena Dr. Join us for a Mask Carving Demonstration for all ages from 3 to 3:45 p.m. followed by a Dyeing Workshop for ages 7 – 16 from 4 to 5 p.m. Space is limited, registration is required. To sign up call (626) 744-7266.
Noh theater is a traditional Japanese performing art that is characterized by stylized movements and a distinct form of singing. While the performers wear carefully-carved masks to depict certain character types, they emote by adjusting the angle from which the audience can see their mask. The clothing, too, impacts how the audience perceives specific characters as the patterning in Noh costumes convey identity and meaning.
This highly stylized and traditional form of Japanese musical drama that has been performed since the 14th century and is the oldest major theater art that is still regularly performed today.
This program is presented in partnership with the Japan Foundation, Los Angeles (JFLA), and features two accomplished artisans who will demonstrate their crafts to attendees.
Artist Hideta Kitazawa, a second-generation woodcarving artist from Tokyo will present a Mask Carving Demonstration for all ages introducing the audience to the world of Noh masks, including the types of mask and the characters they are intended to portray. Then, through a live demonstration, he will show the techniques used by traditional woodworking artisans to strip away raw material and reveal the mask that is at the heart of the wood. He will also present some of his more recent creations inspired by contemporary characters.
Artist Miyoko Yoshiya will first explore the traditional patterns used in Noh costumes. Then, she will talk about her own journey as an artist and her unique approach to textiles that draws on a sensitivity from being born and raised in Japan. The ultra-thin cloth felts that Miyoko produces, made from domestic Kawamata silk, can be compared to Japanese paper in that they have a gentle and warm texture. Yoshiya will present a Dyeing Workshop for ages 7 to 16 from 4 to 5 p.m.
For more information about this program, call Lamanda Park Branch Library, (626) 744-7266.
