A program photo shoot was recently held at Gion Kaikan (Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City) for the autumn dance performance "Gion Odori" in Hanamachi Gion East (Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City). Geishas and maikos wore authentic costumes and were bathed in strobe light.
This year's autumn theme is ``Kashinshukurei Five Festivals'', which is based on the theme of seasonal turning points. The program opens with a prologue in which five geisha dance with props associated with the Gosekku festival, and is based on the customs and flowers of the Gosekku festival, including ``Nanakusa,'' ``Peach Festival,'' ``Carp Falls,'' ``Tanabata,'' and ``Chrysanthemum Festival.'' 5 views unfold. The finale will be the customary "Gion Higashi Kouta" dance.
Masane (17 years old), a maiko who will be performing in Gion Odori for the first time, said, ``I'm looking forward to performing on stage, but I'm also very nervous.'' "I get nervous when I think I'm going to be attacked," he said, trying to regain his composure.
This is the 64th time that Gion Odori will be held, with two performances from November 1st to 10th, at 1:30pm and 4pm. 7,000 yen including tea ticket. Regular seats are 6,000 yen. The phone number for Gion Higashi Kabukai is +81-75-561-0224.
