Contemporary and traditional show-stopping performances
- Tomioka Dance Club - The viral Japanese high school dance club sensation, will premiere a brand-new dance and share exclusive behind the scenes interviews and shots from rehearsal. Their moves have to be seen to be believed - it is impossible to imagine they dance at that level alongside studying at high school full time. In 2019, they placed second in the World of Dance competition, LA, even though they are studying full time alongside dancing.
- Minyo Crusaders - Rework historic Japanese folk songs (min'yō) with Latin, African, Caribbean and Asian rhythms, and are giving an exclusive socially-distanced performance from their home in Japan. These beats will have people at home up on their chairs, dancing around the living room!
Live cook-alongs
- How to Make Dorayaki with the Sozai Cooking School (26 Sept, 11am) - Dorayaki are a Japanese red bean pancake dessert loved by adults and children alike; but how do you make one?! In this free cooking masterclass, Sozai Cooking School teach how to create this iconic Japanese dish at home.
- How to Make Okonomiyaki with the Sozai Cooking School (26 Sept, 5pm) - In this free cooking masterclass, foodies can try their hand at making their very own okonomiyaki - and just in time for dinner! This recipe requires just a few simple techniques and ingredients to be on your way to the authentic taste of Japan from the comfort of your very own home.
- How to make miso peanut butter aubergine with chef Andrew Kojima (27 Sept, 3pm) - Umami flavours are the foundation of Japanese cooking, and by using a mixture of western and Japanese ingredients and umami fiesta is born and bound to please the tastebuds!
Family friendly activities
- Instrument creator and one-man band ICHI - will give a euphoric performance live from his home, perfect for both adults and children alike - viewers won't be able to help feeling overjoyed when listening to his eclectic, at times bizarre, sound that incorporates toys and every-day objects.
- The Tanabata Story performed by A Thousand Cranes - The Story of Tanabata - a tale of love, loss and reunion - will be brought to life through a colourful Japanese storyboard theatre technique called kamishibai. This performance is perfect for children who can get involved by drawing designs inspired by the production (think stars, bamboo, wishes and more!) from home and share with #JMPtanabata
The full programme and timings are available to view here: http://www.japanmatsuripresents.com
The event is organised by Japan Matsuri and The Embassy of Japan with support from volunteers.
