Online Event: Noh “Tomoe” – An Expression of Love

Registration info: https://tomoe.eventbrite.com

Noh Society, promoting the timeless and borderless fascinations of Noh, has invited the Kanze school Shite Noh performer, Mikata Shizuka to introduce the Noh “Tomoe” - An Expression of Love, as an online event.

He will explain the movements of the Shite (protagonist) and chants as a means for unraveling Tomoe’s feelings, leading us into the emotional depths of the Noh “Tomoe”.

“Tomoe” is taken from the famous literary work “The Tale of Heike”, and portrays the last dramatic moments between Tomoe, a female warrior, and her lord Kiso Yoshinaka. The story portrays Tomoe’s unswerving loyalty and love for Yoshinaka, together with Tomoe’s deep regret that she cannot meet her end together with her lord, and her resolve to follow her destiny as a woman.

Mikata Shizuka is internationally active and is the founder of THEATRENOH, an organization that seeks to create a natural fusion of the traditional and contemporary in Noh. He hosts Noh study sessions, has authored books, and is active in bringing the art of Noh to wide audiences.

This webinar is based on the planned US performance by Mikata Shizuka that was moved to the Yarai Noh Theater in Tokyo due to COVID restrictions and held in September. The content will be transmitted in English and Japanese using interpretation and subtitles.

Supported by The Japan World Exposition 1970 Commemorative Fund, Sumitomo Corporation of Americas Foundation and Mitsui Sumitomo Marine Management (U.S.A.), Inc.