Japanese art and cultural event in The Portland Japanese Garden completed the Japanese Village project designed So California by world renowned architect Kengo Kuma, who is also spearheading the National April / May 2017 Stadium for the 2020 Olympics. The garden’s $33.5 million expansion project and beyond provides additional space for art and cultural exhibition. Turn to page 3 and 4.

Yamaato Kakurei, Kyoto River, circa 1810, One from a pair of eight-panel screens; gold leaf, Prussian Blue pigment and various mineral pigments (including malachite and azurite), and ink on paper, Image: 64 Namikawa Yasuyuki, Incense Container (kōgō) Namikawa Sōsuke, Box with Design of Crow on 13/16 × 191 3/16 in., photo © Museum Associates/LACMA with Design of Dragon, c. 1900-1905, LACMA, gift Branch, c. 1890-1893, LACMA, from the Japanese from the Japanese Cloisonné Enamels Collection of Cloisonné Enamels Collection of Donald K. Gerber Donald K. Gerber and Sueann E. Sherry, photo © and Sueann E. Sherry, photo © Museum Associates/ LACMA acquires c.1810-Kyodo River panels by Okyo style painter Museum Associates/LACMA LACMA

The Los Angeles County Museum In 1795, Ōkyo created a pair of Los Angeles County Museum of Art of Art announced a new acquisition of screens, today registered as National Kyodo River (c. 1810) panels during Treasures, depicting the same river the museum’s 31stz annual Collectors with vegetation and flowering plants Polished to Perfection: Japanese Cloisonné from the Committee fundraiser on April 23. on both sides of the river. Collection of Donald K. Gerber and Sueann E. Sherry Kyoto River (c. 1810) , a newly In these screens, about 15 years lat- restored pair of eight-panel screens er, Kakurei radically re-envisioned the May 28, 2017–February 4, 2018 Polished to Perfection presents ap- featuring the Hozugawa, a river located river theme— eliminating all non-river proximately 150 works from the in the Arashiyama (Stormy Mountain) elements—concentrating on only the The 1830s marked the beginning of collection of Donald K. Gerber and area of far northwest Kyoto. river, its rocks, and the gold-leaf clouds a renaissance in Japanese cloisonné Sueann E. Sherry. Built over the This pair of screens is by Yamaato and mist, to magnificent effect. production. Though small objects in- course of more than four decades, the Kakurei, one of the “Ten Great Disci- These unique screens of astonishing corporating enamels were produced in collection contains works crafted by ples” of famed painter Maruyama beauty and vitality are like no other in prior to the 19th century, a new the most accomplished Japanese cloi- Ōkyo (1733–1795), founder of the the history of Japanese art. In the top is generation of artisans developed tech- sonné masters of the time including Maruyama School of painting of the the left side panel, and in the bottom is niques that enabled the creation of Namikawa Yasuyuki (1845–1927), Edo Period. the right side panel. three-dimensional vessels, greater Namikawa Sōsuke (1847–1919), flexibility in surface design, and a Hayashi Kodenji (1831–1915), and number of different enameling styles. Kawade Shibatarō (1856–1921). During the “golden age” of Japanese The artists represented in this exhi- cloisonné production (approximately bition raised the art of cloisonné 1880–1910), intricate decorations, so- enamel to a level of unparalleled tech- phisticated use of color, expanding nical and artistic perfection. varieties of form, and flawless surface This exhibition is curated by Rob- finishes became the hallmarks of Japa- ert T. Singer, Head of Japanese Art nese cloisonné wares. Department of LACMA.

Yamaato Kakurei, Kyoto River, Left side panel

Kumeno Teitaro, Pair of Vases with Designs of Gotō Seizabur​ ō,​​ Inkwell with Design of Dragons amid Dragonflies and Plants, c. 1900-1905, LACMA, gift Clouds, c. 1905, LACMA, promised gift from the from the Japanese Cloisonné Enamels Collection Japanese Cloisonné Enamels Collection of Donald of Donald K. Gerber and Sueann E. Sherry, photo K. Gerber and Sueann E. Sherry, photo © Museum Yamaato Kakurei, Kyoto River, Right side panel © Museum Associates/LACMA Associates/LACMA 2 Cultural News April / May 2017

Broadway musical Allegiance based on war time experience to be presented in L.A. from Feb. 2018

East West Players and Japanese American Cultural & Community Center in Los Angeles announced the Los Angeles premiere of the Broadway musical Allegiance, which had its 2012 world premiere in a record-breaking 2015 “Utayabira Wuduyabira” opening program “Kajadefu” (Courtesy of the OAA) engagement at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego and Okinawa Performing Arts Group to mark 30th Anniversary played on Broadway from 2015-16 at The Shubert Orga- To commemorate 30th anniversary “Let’s Sing, Let’s Dance.” nization’s Longacre Theatre. of the Performing Arts Committee The latest “Utayabira” showcase Allegiance will be co- (Geino-bu) of the Okinawa Association will have a theme of Okinawan folk produced by EWP and of America, “Utayabira Wuduyabira” life in traditional era. Geino-bu per- JACCC by special arrange- Okinawa music and dance showcase formers will show dances and music of ment with Sing Out, Louise! will be held at Armstrong Theatre in farm villages to dances and music of Productions and ATA, with Torrance on Sunday, May 7 at 2:00 pm. fishermen villages. performances at JACCC’s Tickets are $20. Contact the OAA Established in the spirit of unity and Aratani Theatre in Little office at [email protected] or cooperation, 12 Okinawa music and Tokyo from Feb. 21-April 1, (310) 532-1929. dance groups with Charter President 2018. The first “Utayabira Wuduyabira” Yasukazu Takushi formed Geino-bu in Previews will run from was held at the Orange County Buddhist November 1987. Feb. 21-25, with the Opening Church on May 21, 1989 to finance as In 1997, the end of the first decade, Night performance and well as help fulfill its mission. “Utay- the number of music and dance group reception on Feb. 28. Americans, we need to continue to abira Wuduyabira” literally means of Geino-bu had grown from 12 to 23. With music and lyrics by Jay Kuo share our history during World War II and a book by Marc Acito, Kuo, and and the violation of civil rights through Hiroshima press meeting for Sept. 15-16 peace event in L.A. Lorenzo Thione, Allegiance is inspired mass incarceration so that as a country, by the true childhood experiences of we do not repeat these injustices. I can Art photographer Richard Yutaka TV/film actor and social media icon think of no better way to tell these hu- Fukuhara in Long Beach visited Hiro- George Takei (Mr. Sulu on “Star man stories and share them with a shima City in Japan in the first week of Trek”). wider public than through musical the- April, and held a press conference in Allegiance tells the story of the atre.” the Hiroshima City Hall about “An Af- Kimura family, whose lives are upended Producer Lorenzo Thione says, ternoon of Peace: The Hiroshima and when they and 120,000 other Japanese- “The story of Allegiance has found Nagasaki Experience” at Aratani The- Americans are forced to leave their new relevance in today’s political cli- atre in Los Angeles on Sept. 15 and 16, homes following the events of Pearl mate, and we are excited that East West 2017. Harbor. Players and JACCC will breathe new At the April 4 press conference, Sam Kimura seeks to prove his pa- life into it with this production, further Fukuhara asked the Cities of Hiroshima triotism by fighting for his country in fulfilling George’s mission of telling and Nagasaki and teachers for 1,200 the war, but his sister, Kei, fiercely pro- the story of the incarceration of Japa- student letters or drawings of their tests the government’s treatment of her nese Americans around the world. hopes and dreams for World Peace. He people. An uplifting testament to the “It’s particularly special for Alle- explained the letters and drawings will Hiroshima A-bomb survivor Akishige Mori, left, and “Shadow for Peace” organizer Richard power of the human spirit, Allegiance giance to return to Little Tokyo in Los be presented to the attendees of the Fukuhara at Hiroshima press conference on April 4. follows the Kimuras as they fight be- Angeles, where its first readings were Sept. 15 and16 events tween duty and defiance, custom and held and where this story has its richest The Sept. 15 is scheduled for pre- change, family bonds and forbidden legacy. We look forward to this new view production for inviting high of “Hibakusha testimonials by Hideo loves. production as one that will build on the school students. Sakata, Nagasaki Hibagkusha, and EWP Artistic Director Snehal Desai Broadway production to bring Alle- Fukuhara represented “Shadows for Wataru Namba, Hiroshima Hibakusha; says, “It’s an incredible honor to part- giance to smaller theaters, schools, and Peace, for the Sake of the Children Dance of “1000 Cranes” Odori by Nancy ner with JACCC and the original every place in the world where the (Kodomo No Tame Ni): the Hiroshima Hayata with two of her students; music producers of Allegiance on Broadway need to remember this story is greater and Nagasaki Experience,” a 501 (c) (3) of “Sakura” and “Matsuri” by pianist to bring it to Los Angeles. This year now than ever.” non-profit organization in 2010 to hon- Akiko Dohi; music and slide show of marks the 75th anniversary of the sign- The original Broadway production or and remember the Hibakusha “Furusato,” “Wonderful World,” and ing of Executive Order 9066, which of Allegiance opened on Nov. 8, 2015 (Atomic bombing survivors). “Imagine” by Nori Tani Jazz Ensemble; led to the forced removal of Japanese at the Longacre Theater in New York “An Afternoon of Peace” mixed arts message of “No More Hiroshima, No Americans during World War II. City and was produced by Sing Out, event is co-presented by the Japanese More Nagasaki” by the American So- “In this politically charged climate, Louise! Productions and ATA with American Cultural and Community ciety of Hiroshima and Nagasaki the story of Allegiance resonates with Mark Mugiishi/Hawaii HUI, Hunter Center in Los Angeles and Shadows A-Bomb Survivors, Kaz Suyeishi and timeliness and urgency. We felt it was Arnold, Ken Davenport, Elliott Masie, for Peace. The mixed arts production is Junji Sarashina; and music and slide important to stage Allegiance in Little Sandi Moran, Mabuhay Productions, consisting of dance, music, projected show of “Let There Be Peace on Earth” Tokyo, and we are thrilled to share this Barbara Freitag/Eric & Marsi Gardin- art, honoring and remembering the by the Holiness Youth and Cast. courageous story inspired by the Co- er, Valiant Ventures, Wendy Gillespie, Hibakusha on August 6 and 9, 1945. Joining Fukuhara at the April- Hiro- chair of EWP’s Council of Governors, David Hiatt Kraft, Norm & Diane Blu- As of April 2017, the September shima press conference were: Akishige George Takei.” menthal, M. Bradley Calobrace, Karen program include: Video screening of Mori, historian who President Obama JACCC President & CEO Leslie A. Tanz, Gregory Rae/Mike Karns, in as- “Above the Bomb and Below the hugged when he visited the Peace Park Ito says, “JACCC is thrilled to partner sociation with Jas Grewal, Peter Bomb” with narration of a Japanese in May 2016; Tomoko Watanabe, co- on this production to bring this impor- Landin, and Ron Polson. American actor; dance of “The Experi- founder of Green Legacy Hiroshima; tant story to the Aratani Theatre in Ticketing information and casting ence: The Morning of the Bomb” by and Keiko Ogura, Director of the the heart of Little Tokyo. As Japanese will be announced soon. Ken Dance Company; video screening Hiroshima Interpreters Center. April / May2017 Cultural News 3

Kyogen play “The Owl” (Fukuro) by the Mansaku-no-Kai. Kyogen programs with Living National Treasure Mansaku Nomura at UCLA The Yanai Initiative Japanese Per- Carnesale Commons, and an interna- forming Arts Program at UCLA & tional symposium “Japanese Theater and Former Prime Minster of Japan Morihiro Hosokawa retired at the age of 60 and entered in the creative Waseda presents 5 Days of Kyogen Theater Studies in a Global Age” will be life. (Photo by Yoshihito Saito) with living national treasure Mansaku presented by the Yanai Initiative Japanese Portland Japanese Garden Nomura & Mansaku-no-Kai from May 5-9. Performing Arts Program on May 5 at “An Evening of Kyogen with Man- 1:30 – 6:00 pm at Carnesale Commons. saku Nomura & Mansaku-no-Kai” will Masterclasses with Yukio Ishida and Hosokawa Morihiro: The Art of Life, be presented on May 6 and 7 at 5:00 Mansai Nomura will be presented by pm at Aratani Theatre at the Japanese the Yanai Initiative at UCLA and A Rebirth in Clay American Cultural and Community . A masterclass in Center Campus in Little Tokyo, Down- kyogen acting led by Yukio Ishida will April 2 - May 21, 2017 town Los Angeles. be held on May 8, 6:30–8:00 pm at Cultural Village In the UCLA campus, a lecture by UCLA campus. Living National Treasure Mansaku And a masterclass in kyogen acting In celebration of the Grand Opening Nomura will be presented by the led by Mansai Nomura will be held on of the Cultural Crossing expansion Yanai Initiative at UCLA and Waseda May 9, 11:00 am–12:30 pm at UCLA. project in the Portland Japanese Gar- University on May 5 at 10:30 am in www.alc.ucla.edu/kyogen/ den, Art in the Garden is honored to present a glimpse into the creative life ArtCenter Yoshio Ikezaki: ELEMENTS and work of former Prime Minister Hosokawa Morihiro, the 18th genera- March 17 – May 28, 2017 tion head of the Hosokawa clan of Alyce de Roulet Williamson samurai, who left a career in politics Hosokawa Morihiro exhibition at the Portland Gallery Japanese Garden’s new facilities. (Photo by behind and retired at the age of 60 to Jonathan Ley) Futoan, his family estate in Yugawara, The exhibition features se- a small coastal hot-springs town in for us today, beyond borders and time. lected works from 1991 to Kanagawa south of Tokyo. Hosokawa Morihiro: The Art of 2016 consisting of sumi ink Retreating from public life, he pur- Life, A Rebirth in Clay is on view in and watercolor paintings, sued instead the quiet life of an artist, both the Pavilion Gallery and the new handmade layered Washi studying Zen, practicing his own style Tanabe Gallery, located in the Jordan paper sculptures, and cast of tea ceremony, and apprenticing with Schnitzer Japanese Arts Learning Center. metal sculpture installations. master potter Tsujimura Shiro—ulti- The exhibition in the Pavilion Gal- It is organized around a mately creating beautifully understated lery includes a variety of ceramic tea dialog between materials and ceramic tea wares, rustic sculpture, wares and bamboo tea scoops (cha- Yoshio Ikezaki: Elements Installation shots at the Williamson images that exemplify four Galley at ArtCenter College, Pasadena. lacquered bamboo tea scoops, painted shaku), as well as sculptural objects, essential elements and their fusuma screens, and poetic inscriptions such as Buddhist figures, pagoda, and ongoing states of process: Fire/Earth Japanese word pertaining to a profound in calligraphy. lion dogs. (Hi/Taichi), Water/Air (Mizu/Kuki), awareness of the universe which With 600 years of family history as A portable teahouse anchors the Mind Essence/Beingness (Ki), Matter evokes feelings that are inexplicably warriors, tea masters, calligraphers, installation in the Pavilion, and features Energy/ Impermanence (Ku). The ex- deep, too mysterious for words, simul- and poets behind him, this modest a display of tea utensils in place to pro- hibition is accompanied by a 64 page taneously subtle and profound. Renaissance man spent a year and a vide a context for his work. catalog. See website: williamsongallery.net/ half reinventing his life starting with a A celebration of the seasonality is An internationally exhibited visual yoshioikezaki for images. year-and-a-half traditional apprentice- on view in the Tanabe Gallery with artist and educator, Yoshio Ikezaki’s Gallery hours: Tuesday –Sunday, ship with renowned Nara potter seven seasonal pairings of calligraphy paintings and sculptures are grounded 12-5 pm. Friday 12- 9 pm. Tsujimura Shiro. scrolls and ceramics that evoke subtle in Japanese esthetic principles and Yoshio Ikezaki: ELEMENTS has Today Hosokawa practices the art of changes in the seasons as they are ob- philosophies, crafts and materials, in- been made possible by a major gift life—tending his vegetable garden, served in the Way of Tea. terpreted in a contemporary context. from Dr. Frank Ellsworth; a grant from writing Zen inscriptions in calligraphy, Tea presentations will be conducted His works express the profound the Pasadena Art Alliance; a grant from and spending time in his studio where in the Yanai Classroom in the Cathy power and vulnerability of nature in its The Japan Foundation; and through he makes the simple ceramic tea bowls, Rudd Cultural Corner at various times relationship to humanity, thus illumi- the generosity of the Williamson jars and rustic Buddhist sculptures that through May 21. nating the deeper meaning of the Gallery Patrons. express an inner life of modesty and This exhibition is guest curated by contemporary global environmental The exhibition is curated by Jacki compassion, far removed from the Dr. Nishida of the Nezu Museum in crisis. Apple. battlefield of modern politics. Tokyo, in collaboration with Exhibi- Unifying “the life of the mind” with Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery Reflecting the spirit of Zen Bud- tion Manager, Mami Takahashi, and a deeply intuitive physical engagement is located at ArtCenter College of dhism and of Bushido, the warrior’s Arlene Schnitzer Curator of Culture, with material processes, Ikezaki’s Design, 1700 Lida Street, Pasadena, code of honor, he embraces the simple Art, and Education, Diane Durston. works are the embodiment of Yūgen, a CA 91103. www.artcenter.edu art of life with ideals that have meaning japanesegarden.org 4 Cultural News April / May 2017

Panorama of Portland Japanese Garden Cultural Village (Photo by Bruce Forster) Portland Japanese Garden completes $33.5 M Cultural Village expansion The Portland Japanese Garden, experience and preservation of signifi- especially integrating green and wood. chi, the gate-front towns that surround celebrated as one of the most authentic cant cultural traditions and art forms.” For example, the National Stadium in sacred shrines and temples. Japanese gardens outside Japan, on Tokyo will be rich in vegetation, evok- Using a combination of locally April 2 opens its $33.5 million Cultural Architectural Inspiration ing a feeling of forest in the city.” sourced materials and Japanese crafts- Village expansion. Mr. Kuma’s design principles of With this expansion, Kuma and manship, the Village’s design is Designed by world renowned ar- continuity between nature, natural Uchiyama reused and optimized exist- informed by a cross-cultural exchange chitect Kengo Kuma, who is also materials, and Japanese tradition make ing land - adding 3.4 acres of usable of expertise. spearheading the National Stadium for him an ideal match for the Garden’s aim. space to the 9.1 acre property - to create The Tateuchi Courtyard is a gathering the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the Garden’s Together with the Portland Japanese an immersive, fluid journey from space for seasonal activities, perfor- new Cultural Village will not only Garden’s Curator, third generation beginning to end. mances and demonstrations to educate provide additional space to accommo- master garden craftsman Sadafumi To better welcome visitors, the en- and enrich the visitor experience. date its rapid visitor growth, but also Uchiyama, Kuma designed the new trance to the Garden at Washington Each new LEED-certified structure - and most importantly - enhance its Cultural Village, his first public com- Park features a water garden with cas- exists harmoniously with nature and ability to immerse visitors in traditional mission in the U.S., to honor the cading ponds, introducing the transition serves as a mere frame from which to Japanese arts and culture. singular experience of each visitor and from city to tranquility. view its exquisite beauty, leaving the “In this increasingly plugged-in, ensure the serenity is protected for fu- To protect the peaceful environment, Garden as the centerpiece. distracted world, we find many of our ture generations. the Village emulates Japan’s monzenma- guests seek out the peace and respite “Given its proximity to nature, Port- they find within the Garden,” said land is unlike any place in the world. Steve Bloom, chief executive officer This new Cultural Village serves as a for the Portland Japanese Garden. connector of the stunning Oregon land- “With this new Cultural Village, we scape, Japanese arts and a subtle will extend the Garden’s legacy and gradation to architecture,” said Kuma. purpose, providing a heightened sense of “Working with the Garden has influ- tranquility, a more robust educational enced my approach to future projects,

Garden members view the new Castle Wall (Photo by Tyler Quinn)

Building Japanese garden on old zoo site incepted in 1950s Inspired in the late 1950s by growing Japanese ideals and values, communi- cultural ties between Oregon and Japan, cated simply through nature. Mayor Terry Schrunk and members of The site was dedicated in 1961, and the Portland community conceived the Professor Takuma Tono of Tokyo Agri- idea of building a Japanese garden on cultural University was retained to the site of the old zoo in Washington design the Garden. Park. Professor Tono’s plan included five Their reasons for building a Japa- different garden styles laid out on 5.5 nese garden were twofold: providing acres. This was quite a departure from the citizens of Portland with a garden gardens in Japan which typically follow of great beauty and serenity, while one singular style. forging a healing connection to Japan His intention was to represent different on the heels of World War II. historical developments in Japanese At this time in U.S. history, Japa- garden architecture and through that nese gardens were founded across the communicate Japanese culture to country as a way to build cultural create a cultural exchange. For more understanding. Needing no translation, information, visit japanesegarden.org. The Ellie M. Hill Bonsai Terrace (Photo by Bruce Forster) an American could experience firsthand April / May2017 Cultural News 5

Lawyer Henry Ota to be awarded Japan’s medal in recognizing his efforts to U.S.-Japan relations Mr. Henry Yasushi Japanese firms and Ota, 74 years old Moor- Sacramento lobby- park resident, will be ists retained on their awarded “Order of the behalf, and success- Rising Sun, Gold Rays fully halted the bill. with Rosette” by Japa- Believing that nese government in the Japanese American occasion of the Spring leaders active in 2017 Decoration accord- various sectors ought ing to the Consulate to be Japan-U.S. General of Japan in bridge builders in Los Angeles. their diverse arenas, Henry Yasushi Ota Mr. Ota co-founded was born during World the U.S.-Japan Coun- All 4th grade students of Ocean Charter School pose after their over one hour Japanese language play War II at the Gila River cil in 2009. Momotaro. (Courtesy of Ocean Charter School) Internment Camp in Ar- In response to the Mr. Henry Yasushi Ota will be awarded izona. As an American “Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with 2011 Great East Ja- Momotaro meets Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) of Japanese ancestry, Rosette.” pan Earthquake, the Mr. Ota has dedicated U.S.-Japan Council at charter school in Los Angeles himself to serving as a bridge between established a relief fund and gathered School play is one of important events the U.S. and Japan, not only in the le- substantial donations. To support the at Ocean Charter School in Westchester gal and business fields, but in the affected areas on a long term basis, the near Los Angeles International Airport. cultural realm as well. He has played Council in partnership with the U.S. As a kindergarten to 8th-grade school central roles in the establishment and government also formed the Tomodachi based on the pedagogical principles of management of the major Japanese Initiative in 2012, to strengthen busi- Rudolf Steiner (1861 – 1925) with fund American organizations of Los Angeles. ness and cultural ties and thereby from California State, Ocean Charter Mr. Ota received his California Bar deepen U.S.-Japan friendship. School is the only public Waldorf school accreditation in 1970, and was active Mr. Ota has served on the Board of in Los Angeles. as a corporate attorney for Japanese Directors of the Japanese American All approximately 50 students in firms considering entry into the U.S. Cultural and Community Center since two classes at each grade participate in market. 1990, and as Chair in 2012. once-a-year school play syages such During the early 1980s when U.S.- Mr. Ota has also been deeply involved as: Westside Story or Animal Farm at Japan trade friction was an issue, he with the establishment and manage- 8th grade; Renaissance theme or helped organize Japanese firms to fight ment of the Japanese American Shakespeare (16th century) plays at a bill before the California State Legis- National Museum. From 1990-1991 7th; Literature of Chaucer (14th centu- 4th grade students play Aka Oni, left, and Momotaro lature aiming to limit overseas imports he served as the Chair of the Board of on April 11, 2017. (Courtesy of Ocean Charter ry) at 6th; Greek mythology at 5th; and School) through “Buy American” legislation. Trustees, and continues to serve as a Japanese language play Momotaro – He served as a liaison between the Board member. the Peach Boy at 4th grade. Japanese Business Association of For past 11 years, Japanese language Southern California has supported the has been taught two times a week for Japanese language activity of Ocean all grade students in Ocean Charter Charter School, and this year $2,400 of Former Alhambra Mayor Gary Yamauchi to be decorated School. Japanese language play Momo- the JBA donation was spent for pur- Japan’s medal for his merit of promoting U.S.-Japan ties taro has been a showcase what students chasing taiko and a rental stage lighting have learned in Japanese language system. Mr. Gary Yamau- disadvantaged youth in classes for their four years. The driving force of Momotaro play chi, 72 years old the region through On April 11, Japanese language play was veteran Waldorf educator and Alhambra resident, employing 25 percent of Momotaro was performed by 56 students Japanese language teacher Ms. Hiromi will be awarded his staff from Homeboy of the 4th grade, and drew many audi- Yoneda-Matsue. Ms. Matsue received “Order of the Rising Industries, an organiza- ences of parents and students in the the training of Waldorf education in Sun, Gold and Silver tion which helps the other grades. Just like listening an Great Britain, and taught at private Rays” by Japanese formerly incarcerated Italian opera, most audiences enjoyed Waldorf schools in the Greater Los government accord- in recovery. Japanese songs and children’s skit in Angeles area before she joined Ocean ing to the Consulate In 2004 Mr. Yamau- Japanese language without English Charter School. General of Japan in chi was elected to the translation. The synopsis in English Currently along with Mr. Matsue, Los Angeles. Alhambra City Coun- language was printed in the back page Japanese language classes are taught Mr. Yamauchi is cil, and has served as of the Momotaro program. by Mr. Yoriko Hongo and Mr. Andrew a third generation mayor three times Over one hour production consisted Lyzenga who taught English for five Japanese American since 2007. Upon be- of: opening taiko drumming; children’s years until 2013 in Yamanashi Prefec- and was born in coming the first Japanese songs of “Oyama no fuyu wa samuizo,” ture on assignment of the JET program. Chicago, Illinois. American mayor in “Hotaru Koi,” “Kagome Kagome,” Mr. Lyzenga became a taiko player in Mr. Gary Yamauchi will be awarded Alhambra, he proposed After World War II, “Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver “Umi wa Hiroina Okina,” “Haru ga Yamanashi. his family settled in Rays.” the formation of a sister Kita”; and Japanese language skit of For the first time, Kristy Mack-Fett, Gardena. city relationship with whole Momotaro story from the episode Director of Ocean Charter School, is He became a professional bowler at Kirishima, Kagoshima Prefecture, and of a baby boy from a big peach fruit to invited to the Educator to Japan pro- the age 15. After retiring from profes- in July 2007 the Mayor of Kirishima Momotaro’s expedition to Oni ga shima gram by the Japanese Business sional bowling, he worked in various visited Alhambra. (Demon’s Island). Association. On the July 17, next day ventures such as real estate and in 1990 Mr. Yamauchi has also strongly Teachers for the 4th grade wore of the graduation in the school, Ms. founded vending machine company supported the Go For Broke National Yukata-kimono or Samue-cloth, and Fett will join 10-day Japan tour with Tri-Star Vending in the City of Alhambra. Education Center, and has served as a gave helps to their students’ play. other teachers invited by Japanese Mr. Yamauchi plays a major role in board member for ten years. For last six consecutive years, the organizations worldwide. supporting the social rehabilitation of 6 Cultural News April / May 2017 Five Outstanding Women in Japanese Community

The Downtown Los Angeles Chap- Haggott-Henson, Susan Kazue Imoto, Marlene Masami Okada: Cultural Exchange Promoter ter of the Japanese American Citizen Marlene Masami Okada, Irene Shigeko League and the Japanese Women’s Sumida, and Norie Yamamoto. Marlene Masami In August 1966, Society of Southern California has This year’s luncheon event will be Okada is the eldest of 6 Marlene Okada selected five outstanding Japanese held at the Quiet Cannon, 901 North children. During WWII, married Donald M. American community leaders for the Via San Clemente, Montebello, on the family relocated to Okada, M.D. who 2017 Women of the Year Award: Mikko Sunday, May 7, at 12:30 pm. Heart Mountain, Wy- was an obstetrics and oming, where her gynecology resident Mikko Haggott-Henson: Traditional Performing Arts Advocator younger sister and 2 at Harbor General brothers were born. Hospital. After Donald Mikko Haggott- and Kashiwa, Chiba Okada obtained her Okada served in the Henson was born as Prefecture. The affili- Bachelor’s in Micro- Air Force at Offutt Misako Arimoto in ation was formalized biology and her Air Force Base in Tokyo, and is also in 1973. She then Secondary Teaching Omaha, Nebraska, the known professionally founded the Torrance Credential from Long Okada family moved in Japanese traditional Sister City Associa- Beach State College. to the Palos Verdes music circle as Katada tion and served as the While working for phy- Peninsula. Kikusa. In 1964, she president, translator, sicians and attending Okada was a married Ben Haggott and cultural advisor college, Okada helped founding trustee for who was called Mr. until 1993. The asso- many exchange students Marlene Masami Okada the Peninsula Educa- Water of Torrance ciation received 8 from Japan and became aware of the tion Foundation in 1980. She was because he was a awards from the Sister need to bridge the cultures at this time. Please turn to page 7 Metropolitan Water Cities International District Board member and enjoyed the Irene Shigeko Sumida: Charter School Administrator representing the City reputation of being of Torrance. the model sister city. Irene Shigeko Sumida taught for For more than 50 Mikko Haggott-Henson Haggott-Henson Sumida grew up in 18 years as a full- years, Haggott-Henson’s worked with the the San Fernando time teacher at Herrick life has been dedicated to fostering UCLA Fine Arts Department from Valley, and graduated Elementary. In 1989, Japanese culture and arts in the U.S. 1980-1982 on special summer projects, from the San Fernando she was promoted to through her activities of the Torrance bringing in notable classical dance and Valley State College Assistant Principal, Sister City Association, the Japanese music masters from Japan. (currently California and in 1990, she Traditional Performing Arts Organiza- She took Hayashi (percussion) lessons State University, was assigned to tion, and organizing art exhibitions and taught by Grand Master Katada Kisaku. Northridge) in 1970 Sylmar Elementary film screenings featuring Japanese She then founded Katada Kai of USA with a bachelor’s (then Canterbury Christians who dedicated their live to in 1981 to revive Hayashi in the U.S. In degree in English. Elementary). social causes in Japan. 1992, Haggott-Henson founded the Earning her Sumida was placed Haggott-Henson helped to establish a Japanese Traditional Performing Arts Elementary Teaching at Fenton Avenue sister city relationship between Torrance Please turn to page 7 Credential in 1971 and Elementary in 1991. beginning to teach at She became the Susan Kazue Imoto: Japanese Dance Master Herrick Elementary Director of Instruc- was the first step for Irene Shigeko Sumida tion in 1993 and After being a Born as Kazue her to become an became the school’s supporter and a learner Fujinami in October administrator of a charter school sole Director in 2005. Under Sumida’s of Japanese dance for 1944 in Shinkyo, organization. Please turn to page 7 near 40 years, Susan Manchuria, China, Kazue Imoto has led Susan Kazue Imoto Norie Yamamoto: Senchado Tea Master the Kotobuki No Kai, grew up in Kushimoto- a minyo dance group cho, Wakayama Norie Yamamoto Senchado Tea Company in Los Angeles, and Prefecture until 1960 was born in Omuta, Group of Southern became the head of when her family moved Fukuoka Prefecture in California is very the Los Angeles to Boyle Heights in July 1939. She came significant. Yamamoto Nippon Minyo Kenkyu Los Angeles. to the U.S. in 1964 to joined the Ogasawara- Kai since the spring Kazue Fujinami study English. She met ryu tea in 1973 and of 2009 married with Ted James Yamamoto, a obtained the Teacher’s The group currently Takafumi Imoto in Nisei, and married Credential and was practices at the Cente- 1967, and currently him in 1966. given the Sencha name nary United Methodist they have 3 children Yamamoto has been of Yamamoto Shukyou Church in Little Tokyo, Susan Kazue Imoto and 8 grandchildren. active members in in 1978. Over the year, Los Angeles. While raising 3 various community Yamamoto taught and Imoto shares her passion for Minyo children, Imoto attended East Los Angeles organizations such as trained many students by volunteering to teach dance. Her College in the evenings and received Nanka Nikkei Fujinkai, in the ways of the students include her regular Kotobuki an Associate of Arts degree in Child Beikoku Shodo Ken- Ogasawara-ryu tea. No Kai students, as well as Sakura Development. She began working as a kyukai, and Showa Eleven of her students Gardens in Los Angeles (formerly Keiro head teacher at the International Insti- Kai, and helps at the were awarded the Retirement Home) residents, Nisei tute of Los Angeles. She subsequently year-end charity Irene Shigeko Sumida Teacher’s Credentials. Week public dancers, members of the worked at the Keiro Retirement Home fundraising events. Today, Yamamoto Taiwan Center, and some private stu- (currently Sakura Gardens in Los Yamamoto was a former president of continues to actively demonstrate the dents. Imoto and her students perform Angeles) where there was a high need the Showa Kai. art of the Ogasawara-ryu tea at com- at various events throughout Southern for a Japanese bilingual social worker. Among her numerous activities, munity events, including New Year California Please turn to page 7 being a member of the Ogasawara-ryu Please turn to page 7 April / May2017 Cultural News 7

Mikko Haggott-Henson Japan-U.S. relationship. In 2007, Haggott-Henson turned Book on Japanese History in America Continued from page 6 over all of her assets to establish the Organization. Haggott-Henson has Arimoto Memorial Scholarship En- served as an Advisory Board Member dowment at the University of California The Life of Gozo Kawamura: Japan’s of the Torrance Cultural Arts Founda- Irvine to honor her father Shiro Ari- tion to this date. moto, who founded the Shibaura Forgotten Maestro of Sculpture In 2002, Haggott-Henson received Institute of Technology engineering the Sydney Jared Torrance Award from college in Tokyo. Her scholarship has By Nobuko Iinuma the City of Torrance. In 2009, she was made it possible for 10 SIT students Translated by Meher McArthur recognized by the Torrance Area and 6 SIT staff members to study at Edited by Naoko Anna Okada Chamber of Commerce and Japanese UCI. She believes that global experi- Funded by the Terasaki Nibei Foundation Businessman’s Association for her life- ences by Japanese youth is needed for long contributions towards a positive Japan’s future. Available on Amazon: https://www.am- azon.com/ Susan Kazue Imoto statuses as Imoto Hoshunjyu, and continued until her sensei’s retirement Life-Sculptor-Kawamura-Forgotten- Continued from page 6 in 2009. Sculpture/dp/153976818X Imoto retired at the age of 50 when her In addition to her dance, Imoto has first grandson was born. served as the Trustee for the Centenary In 1904, a time when very few Japa- Imoto leaned Japanese dance with United Methodist Church, the Treasurer nese nationals ventured beyond the Kawamura Hoshun at the Nippon of Wakayama Kenjin Kai Women’s country’s borders, 20-year-old Gozo Minyo Kenkyu Kai from 1993 to Club, and the Secretary of the Nanka Kawamura sailed from Japan to the 2009. Under Kawamura Sensei, Imoto Minyo Kyokai. United States and then France to study achieved her Natori and Shihan Western art. In a few years he became a talented sculptor and invented an en- Marlene Masami Okada Medical Association Auxiliary. larging machine that helped construct Okada coordinated 2 cookbook significant monumental sculptures in Continued from page 6 projects and a musicale with The the U.S., including the statue The involved with the Multi-Cultural Com- Dames, a charitable women’s group, to Contemplation of Justice at the U.S. mittee and helped to create a “Survival raise $100,000 for Keiro HealthCare and several major Guide” in Japanese, Korean, Chinese and before senior facilities were sold by public works in New York City. Farsi for schools to help non-English Keiro. The Dames group also donated He designed a bronze model of a speaking families. to the Japanese American National bull that became the ideal for the U.S.’s Okada supported the Little Company Museum. cattle industry at a critical point in its this thoughtful biography. of Mary Hospital as a member of the Okada co-chaired the Annual Bravo growth in the mid-20th century, and he Interweaving her own personal jour- hospital Foundation Board. Okada has Awards several times with the Asia created bust portraits of such important ney investigating the artist’s life and coordinated fundraisers at the Carolyn America Symphony Association and political and military personages as work, Iinuma chronicles Gozo’s child- Elliott Estate since 1994. She co-chaired was president of the Asia America President Calvin Coolidge and General hood in rural Japan, his studies and the Sellabration fundraiser for the Little Symphony Guild twice. Douglas MacArthur. work as a sculptor in the United States, Company of Mary Hospital. For 3 years, Okada and her husband continue to However, despite his personal and France and finally in Japan, where he she chaired the Health Career Days for support the Asia America Symphony artistic achievements and his rare posi- returned during World War II. the Southwest District 9 Medical Aux- Association & Guild with programs tion as an artist working between two Though his life was short, Gozo iliary at 3 local hospitals: Little Company and scholarships for young musicians. cultures that have had complex relations Kawamura’s accomplishments in of Mary, South Bay Hospital, and Torrance Okada hopes to bridge the “East meets in the 20th century, his name became Western-style sculptor were all the Memorial Hospital. Okada was a for- West” with culture, language, and music lost both in the United States and Japan more remarkable considering the ten- mer president of the Japanese American – “the language of the world.” for many decades. sion between Japan and much of the Now, thanks to Nobuko Iinuma, author West in the mid-20th century. This Irene Shigeko Sumida Sumida served as the Chair of the of several books spotlighting the ac- book is not simply a biography, but it Board of Directors of the California complishments of her fellow Japanese also a tale of two countries and of how Continued from page 6 Charter Schools Association (CCSA) Americans, his considerable artistic their relations can be strengthened by direction, the Fenton Primary Center and continues to serve as a board member achievements have been revealed in creative individuals such as Gozo. opened in 2008. of CCSA Advocates, CharterSAFE, In 2011, she established the Fenton and Alliance of Schools for Cooperative Charter Public Schools, a charter manage- Insurance Programs (ASCIP), as well Mr. Noritoshi Kanai, of 94 on April 22 in Los Angeles. ment organization (CMO), to continue the as numerous other councils and com- successful business- Under his leadership, his company growth of the Fenton schools. mittees. man and Japanese Mutual Trading Company, Inc. be- In 2012, the Santa Monica Boulevard In the Japanese American community culture advocator, comes one of major Japanese food Community Charter School was divested side, Sumida was president of the San passed away at the age distributors in the U.S. to the Fenton Charter Public Schools. Fernando Valley Japanese American In 2015, the Fenton Charter Public Community Center, and created the Oya Schools opened the Fenton Charter Koko Foundation, a non-profit public Leadership Academy and the Fenton benefit corporation whose sole purpose Bulletin Board STEM Academy in Sun Valley. Sumida is to fund improvements for the assist- To place advertisement, call (213) 819-4100 or email [email protected] currently serves as the Executive Di- ed living facility Nikkei Senior Gardens rector of the CMO. She oversees the Sumida has been married for over organization and its operations, which 44 years. She and her husband, Gary includes a $23 million yearly budget. Sumida, have two sons. Mitsuru Sushi & Grill みつる寿司 In Little Tokyo, for your Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Open till 9PM Norie Yamamoto change and understanding between 316 East First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (213) 626-4046 Continued from page 6 Japan and the U.S. celebrations and Nisei Week festivals. In 2013, Yamamoto was honored Monthly “Cultural News” newspaper She also performs demonstrations at with the rank of “Jittoku” by the Grand Cultural News, Inc. Los Angeles libraries, schools, and parks. Master of Ogasawara-ryu Senchado P.O. Box 48678, Los Angeles, CA 90048 English News Site www.culturalnews.com Yamamoto believes that through School of Japan on the 40th anniversary Shige Higashi, Editor & Publisher Ogasawara-ryu tea activities, she is of the Ogasawara-ryu Senchado Tea (213) 819-4100 Japanese News Site able to contribute to the cultural ex- Company Group in Los Angeles. [email protected] www.digest.culturalnews.com 8 Cultural News April / May 2017

Okinawa Association of America

Utayabira Wuduyabira 2015: the final featuring senseis in the front row.

“Utayabira Wuduyabira” Okinawa music and dance showcase

OAA Performing Arts Committee 30th Anniversary

Sunday, May 7, 2017 at 2:00PM

Armstrong Theatre, 3300 Civic Center Drive, Torrance, CA 90503 Tickets: $20 [email protected] (310) 532-1929

2017 New Year’s Day scenes in Little Toyo: (from left) Akita folklore “Namahage”; Cultural News Editor Shige Higashi and Namahage; auspicious “Shishi Mai” dance. (Cultural News Photo) 1,000 volunteer subscribers make the difference

Japanese culture is a link to connect To continue our efforts of building a Japa- Volunteer Subscription for $30 per year more than 100,000 people in Southern nese cultural community, Cultural News is California such as enthusiasts of Japanese seeking 1,000 volunteer subscribers who are Yes! I like support Cultural News as Volunteer Subscriber. Send the monthly newspaper to the following address: art and culture, seekers for their Japanese willing to pay to read monthly English heritage, Japan-born people rediscovering newspaper. With $30 per year, a volunteer Name: ______their tradition outside of Japan. will receive 12 issues of the monthly The website, www.culturalnews.com newspaper. Address: ______and email news blasts from Cultural News Shige Higashi Please make check payable: are available for everybody for free of Editor & Publisher Cultural News, P.O. Box 48678, Los Angeles, CA 90048 charge. Cultural News April/May 2017