This year is the 150th anniversary for cultural exchange between Japan and the USA. The Japan Cultural Bureau has made it possible for the Midori Nishizaki Dance Group, “Yaobikuni” to perform in the USA as part of their 2004 international cultural projects. The dance group has toured all over the world including Europe and Asia and has received a great response. In addition to introducing a great Japanese dance performance to citizens of the USA, this event will contribute to friendship and goodwill between Japan and the USA.

Midori Nishizaki has performed open air shows (dance performances held outside) since “Yaobikuni” was debuted and won Agency for Cultural Affairs Art Festival Award in 1989. Her new piece, “Amidaraigo” is also an open air piece and won the same award in 2002.  The dance company has gained international acclaim for their performances in Spain and France.

Ms. Nishizaki has created a new style of Japanese Dance and challenged herself with two artistic choices. First, she brought the performance outside in order to feel the wind, rain and and earth during their dance.  Nature becomes part of the performance.  Secondly, she added a dramatic approach to their performances.  By doing so, they bring clear and modern themes to the shows. In many cases, traditional Japanese Dance tends to be primarily appreciated only by dance scholars and specialists. However, Nishizaki has made it possible to bring the show to general audiences by showing the dramatic conflicts of the stories and themes.

Nishizaki says, “Dance is for everyone.” The efforts of Midori Nishizaki and her dance group have been enjoyed by people all over the world, all races and religions.

AWARDS
1989      "Yaobikuni"      Agency for Cultural Affairs     Art Festival Award
1995      "Yaobikuni"      Japan Dance Critic Association Award
2002     "Amidaraigo"     Agency for Cultural Affairs     Art Festival Award