Japanese cultural fair adds storytelling to attractions
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Updated: October 15, 2009 1:24 PM
With a papier-mâché cherry tree growing out of his head, Mike Abe walks to the market.
There, his daughter delivers her sales pitch to a children's audience, who can use Japanese currency to buy the fruit growing from his head. But trouble begins when the fruit sellers at the market get mad and cut down the tree.
"It's a lot of fun," said Abe of the interactive dramatization. The tale is based on a 16th century Japanese story-telling tradition called Rakugo, meaning punch line.
"One person would sit in front of an audience with his legs crossed under and just tell a story," he said of the early rituals. "Traditionally they didn't use any props but as it evolved they did use props."
The Abes have practised their routine in front of a few audiences and are now ready to perform for the Victoria Nikkei Cultural Society's fall fair.
Storytelling will be a new addition to the 10th annual fair, which also features drumming, flower arranging, calligraphy, brush painting, a tea ceremony, music and food. Last year, the event attracted 700 people.
The fall fair will be held Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser St. Admission is free.
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