MIM: Welcome to Kuniko Yamamoto’s Japanese storytelling! This afternoon, she will share Japanese myths and folktales and bring them to life with masks, mime, music, origami, and even a touch of magic.
A native or Japan, Kuniko Yamamoto started performing professionally in her hometown of Osaka and, in 1985, received national exposure performing in Kansai Telecasting Corporation. She traveled to the United States to study with Tony Montanaro the following year, later touring with the Leland Faulkner Light Theatre to present ancient Japanese tales with shadows and magic. Since creating her solo show, she has toured across the United States, appearing at Epcot/Disney, the Kennedy Center, and the National Storytelling Festival.
This was not technically a music concert. A Father’s Day matinee, this show was geared towards families and Kuniko was a master showman at drawing in the audience and delighting children. She is a storyteller above all else, and her musical skill was only a part of the overall show.
I loved her origami portion of the show. She cleverly modified the folds and paper to create images for her story – one piece of paper became a boat or bird or hat.
I also enjoyed the many families – grandparents, fathers, and happy children – that were at the show today! It really was a special Father’s Day show. I wished Elayna was a little older so she could have enjoy this as well!
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