Kagura performances go online to thrill audiences worldwide

The traditional kagura dances of northern Hiroshima are a resilient art form, surviving repression after World War II and population decline. However, COVID-19 is proving to be a foe far tougher than the eight-headed, fire-breathing serpents and web-shooting spider demons that sword-wielding heroes dispatch on stage, to the raucous delight of appreciative audiences.

Almost all the performances and festivals that help fund Hiroshima’s kagura troupes have been canceled or indefinitely postponed.

The pandemic has also halted the weekly “An Evening of Kagura” performances which, through the addition of English subtitles and bilingual MCs, introduced the wonder of Hiroshima kagura to visitors to the city.

However, in the spirit of the legendary heroes portrayed on stage, Hiroshima kagura refuses to succumb to this latest threat. Thanks to funding from the government, “An Evening of Kagura” will return with a series of 11 special performances between November and February. Two shows will be streamed live from a venue in central Hiroshima, while the remainder will be recorded in locations around Hiroshima and later released on YouTube.

All shows will be introduced by an English speaking MC and include English subtitles to help viewers follow the action. The program is not only an opportunity to support this vibrant and entertaining art form, but also to bring the magic of kagura to viewers all over the world.

The performances will be available on the RCC Kagura YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/RCCBCkagura/

Miyanoki Kagura Troupe

Performance schedule

Special Livestreams

November 21, 2020, 20:00-21:00 JST

Asahigaoka Kagura Troupe (Hiroshima City)

Tsuchigumo (The Earth Spider)

January 17, 2021, 14:00-15:00 JST

Tenjin Kagura Troupe (Akitakata City)

Takiyasha-hime (Princess Takiyasha)

Online release of recorded performances

Follow the An Evening of Kagura Facebook Page for release dates of the other nine performances.