WHO/WHAT: Kunitoshi Kineya, a one-of-a-kind Nagauta shamisen player, will perform in Honolulu as part of his U.S. tour. Nagauta, which literally means “long song” in Japanese, is a classical style of Japanese music which traditionally accompanies Kabuki Theater. Kunitoshi specializes in performing pieces from the Nagauta repertoire on the shamisen, a three-stringed fretless lute.
His concert will consist of two parts: the first will be a shamisen demonstration in which he will explain the significance of Nagauta music. In the second part, he will perform a shortened version of “Kurozuka”, a classic Kabuki piece. Kunitoshi will narrate, sing and play the shamisen. An interpreter will be present and English subtitles will be provided.
The event is co-organized by The Japan Foundation, Los Angeles and the Consulate-General of Japan in Honolulu.
WHEN/WHERE: Sunday, Oct. 5, at 7:30 p.m. at Mamiya Theater – Saint Louis Center for the Arts, 3142 Waialae Ave.
COST: Free, but reservations are required. For more information, visit http://www.jflalc.org/kunitoshi-kineya.html and click the reservation link for the Honolulu show. Or call the Japan Foundation, Los Angeles at (323) 761-7510.
