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A highlight of summer festivals in Japan is the bon-odori (盆踊り/ Bon dance). Each region in Japan has their own version of the dance, as well as different music. In Japanese Buddhist tradition, bon-odori is a way to entertain and send off the spirits of our ancestors and celebrate life. Dancers circle the yagura, a high wooden bandstand for the musicians and singers.
At Portland Japanese Garden, dances will be taught by Chris Dart and demonstrated by dancers from Oregon Buddhist Temple. Come to learn the dances, see people dressed in yukata, and to hear and feel the sound of taiko drums.
| Time | Program |
|---|---|
| 10:00 am - 10:30 am | Taiko and Shamisen Ensemble Songs by Takohachi/Kotori-Kai |
| 10:30 am - 11:00 am | First Dance set | This set will feature traditional songs performed by Takohachi. For all three sets, dances will be taught by Chris Dart, Oregon Buddhist Temple Bon Odori Sensei and demonstrated by dancers from the Oregon Buddhist Temple. Dance titles are: |
| 11:15 am - 11:45 am | Second Dance set | This set will feature Japanese dances from 1950-ish to 1990. Dance titles are:
|
| 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm | Third Dance set | This set will feature bon dances popular in the United States. Dance titles are: |
Portland Japanese Garden would like to thank James F. and Marion L. The Miller Foundation, Oregon Arts Commission, Travel Portland, and the America 250 Oregon Commission for their support of arts and culture programming.
Special thanks to Park Lane Suites and Inn for their continued support.