There is a large Festival of Japan taking place in the UK this year which includes demonstrations and performances by some of Japan's top artists. The festival takes place 23rd-25th May at Swinton Park, a luxury castle/hotel near Masham in North Yorkshire, England.
The main stars of the festival are a genuine geisha and maiko from Kyoto who will be performing music, dancing and tea ceremony at a series of special events. There is even the opportunity to stay in one of the castle’s lavish bedrooms and have breakfast with the geisha!
As for the rest of the festival, in the grounds of the castle will be kite making workshops, kite flying and fighting demonstrations, martial arts, samurai sword cutting, origami, food, go tournaments, soroban (abacus) challenges, koi carp in a specially created pond, bonsai and much more.
Inside the castle is a quality Art and Gift Fair, kimono exhibition, designer kimono eveningwear, films, Japanese furniture, art exhibition, Japanese Garden Society and doll display.
Entry to all these events is just £4.50 in advance.
There is also a series of talks in the castle’s Drawing Room with Lesley Downer, performance of Rakugo puppetry, Koto music recital, Japanese festivals and garden talks.
At a special outdoor evening performance, Taiko drummers, butoh dancers, koto musicians and a fabulous firework finale will join the geisha.
Tickets for the geisha events are already selling out, so you are advised to book early. Please see www.festivalofjapan.co.uk for more details, and to purchase tickets.
