The ethic dance art of Japan is somewhat formalized in its style, presentation and organization. Dances may be described under several categories: the theatrical, classic dance known as Bugaku, the Kabuki dance theater, or such peasant dances as the Bon dances linked to countryside festivals and celebrations.

Dance in Japan has an ancient and well-documented history. Gagaku is the term used to deceive noble or elegant music stemming from a period from the ninth to tenth century A.D. which drew elements from many Asian

Dance in Japan

The ethnic dance art of Japan is somewhat formalized in its style, presentation and organization. Dances may be described under several categories: the theatrical, classic dance known as Bugaku, the Kabuki dance theater, or such peasant dances as the Bon dances linked o\to countryside festivals and celebration.

Dance in Japan has an ancient and well-documented history. Gagaku is the term used to describe noble or elegant music stemming from a period from the ninth to tenth century A.D. which drew elements from many Asian nations and cultures and was established as a traditional from of entertainment in the Imperial Japanese household. Gagaku incorporated music and dance of both sacred and secular origin as part of Buddhist services, at Shinto shrines, and as entertainment at the Imperial Court. A dance performance in Gagaku is known as Bugaku.

Bugaku dance is relatively simple and symmetrical linking in rapid or complex movement and with drastic elements subordinated to pure dance form.

In contrast, the Kabuki dance theater is a relatively new form of dance art, having originated during the nineteenth century. The dance was clearly influence by older and more traditional elements of Japanese’s theater. The content, dramatic themes, costuming and other conventions of dance descended from ancient Kabuki, blends music, acting and dance in brightly stylized performance. Men enact all the roles. Many of the pores and movements are influenced by an early puppet theater and the types and styles of Kabuki which is being performed: Kyogin Zyoruri, a puppet drama with much dramatic content; Noh drama, performed only in special times of the year. These are also called transfiguration dances. The last is the comical Zyoruri dance.

Japanese dances are also characterized by the style and range of movement. Odori is a stage dance performed by swift movements of the feet and lower part of the body. Mai dances involve movement of the upper half of the body, including the head, arms and shoulders.

Shosa dance is a gene mimetic and realistic imitative movement. This is devoted to cultural tradition and may be difficult for Filipinos to understand and appreciate.

The Japanese Parasol Dance is an example of a simple Japanese dance that uses an umbrella. The dance is suited for girls making use of shuffling steps that is basic to typical Japanese.