[Contents] [Back] [Next] [Section IV: Life, Breath, Essence]
Life, Breath, Essence The stories in Kagura unfold through the linking of separate moments. Kagura has many "moments" in which spectators are mesmerized by the dance being performed. It is during these moments that spectators understand the essence of Kagura. Kagura performances are judged based on how well dancers can execute these moments. But one does not hold one's breath in awe only when a particularly striking dance movement is executed. One is also impressed by the music (especially the drums), the positioning of the props, the way in which the dancers interact with one another, and, most importantly, the way the dancers all reverberate with the same spirit. Of course, the audience is an important part of a Kagura performance. Whether it takes no time at all or a few seconds to shift from a "silent moment" to a "moving moment," Kagura has the strange ability to freeze time, drawing everyone into its spell. The dances of the beautiful and bewitching maidens are frenzied and reel the spectators in. Those watching may not believe their eyes. I wonder if this is what they mean when they say that a moment is transmitted by magic. The audience's eyes remain riveted on the stage, waiting with great expectation for each new "moment." I wonder how long dancers must practice to perfect these "moments?" They must not disappoint their audience. The audience holds its breath, and then breaks into applause.  |
|
NPO Hiroshima kagura Art Laboratory |