Ceremonial Dance
A ceremonial dance performed at the beginning of a Kagura program. Rather than telling a specific story, it serves to prepare the space and audience for the performance.
Ceremonial Dance does not tell a particular story. It is performed as an opening dance, traditionally serving to purify the performance space and prepare both the performers and audience for the Kagura that follows. Its movements and music establish the solemn atmosphere of the beginning of a performance.
The performers who take part in the ceremonial opening dance. Depending on the Kagura tradition and troupe, the dancers may represent deities or sacred figures rather than specific characters from a story.
Watch the precise movements, rhythm, and atmosphere of the opening dance. Unlike narrative performances, the focus is on the ritual nature of the dance and the way it establishes the mood for the Kagura program.
Photographs from Hiroshima Kagura performances
No photographs are available yet.