Artist:
Cheryl Yoshie Nakasone

PROGRAM; OKINAWAN DANCE

Cheryl Nakasone, a third generation sansei, started dance lessons at an early age. Born into a family of prominent Okinawan musicians – her uncle Harry Seisho Nakasone played the sanshin and was designated a Nation Living Treasure, and grandmother Nae Nakasone taught kutu. After graduating from the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa, she continued her studies under the tutelage of Ryosho Kin, a designated National Living Treasure of Japan. She is the first foreign-born dancer to complete all levels of the Ryukyu Shimpo Geino Konkuru and in 1977 she was designated Shibu Cho of Jimpu Kai Kin Ryosho Ryukyu Geino Kenkyusho, Hawai‘i Shibu. She teaches dance and kumiwudui the classical dance drama of Okinawa.

PROGRAM DETAIL

The Okinawan dances of today can be seen throughout the state at various celebrations and festivals. We will introduce the connection between the classical dances that have departed from much of the general public’s view and the popular new choreographies. We will also perform from the folk tradition, introduce the sanshin the main instrument used and do a short demonstration of the classical dance drama or kumi wudui. At the end of the program we will have audience participation. Atchame traditionally ends a celebration or gathering allowing the performers and audience to express their gratitude and appreciation for each other.