Workshop in Traditional Japanese Puppetry

Please join us for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact with a master Japanese artist, Koryu Nishikawa V, who is the 5th generation Master Puppeteer of the Kuruma Ningyō style. This 160 year-old form of puppetry is related to the three person style of Bunraku. However, in Kuruma Ningyō, a puppet is operated by a single puppeteer who sits on a small wheeled cart. The puppeteer uses his hands and feet to manipulate the puppet’s arms, legs and head, all while rolling about the stage on the cart. Joining Master Nishikawa is Tom Lee, originally from Mililani, who has appeared in War Horse on Broadway and in Madama Butterfly at the Metropolitan Opera. This workshop also presents the principles behind traditional sannin zukkai (three person puppetry), the foundation of the Bunraku tradition. Participants will have a hands-on opportunity to handle traditional Japanese puppets and draw back the curtain on how these beautiful puppets are brought to life through skillful puppetry technique. Suitable for all ages. Young children must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver.

This is a production of the University of Hawaii at Manoa Outreach College’s Statewide Cultural Extension Program with additional funding and support provided by the Performing Arts Presenters of Hawaii and the Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts.

Program schedule is subject to change. Please contact the library 10 days in advance if special accommodations are required.