On April 4, 2024, just as the opening of the dance performance "Kyo Odori" in Kyoto's red-light district Miyagawa-cho (Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City) approaches, a full rehearsal of "Ozarae" will be held at the venue, Kyoto University of Arts Shunjuza (Sakyo Ward). was held. The costumed geisha and maiko checked their movements and standing positions. Character videos and Nebuta floats devised and produced by students at Kyoto University of the Arts also appeared, heightening the perfection of the challenging stage that connects tradition and modernity.
This year's performance is "Toki no Tabimiyako Hizakurige". Based on the Edo period Tokaido Nakahizakurige, this is a story about a 22nd century futuristic couple, Yaji and Kita, who travel through time to various eras in Kyoto.
The show begins with a video playing on the screen above the stage. Geisha and maiko performed in Kyoto during various eras, including the Heian period, where Major General Fukakusa and Ono Komachi appeared, and the Onin War in the Muromachi period. Many modern dialogues, as well as hanamichi and stage dialogues are used. Maiko Kimisho said with a smile, " want to see new and interesting dances,'' and maiko Fukuyu said, "Students of my generation are working hard. We want to do our best too.''
Performances will be held from April 6th to 21st, with two performances on weekdays at 1:00 pm and 3:30 pm, and three performances on Saturdays and Sundays at 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm, and 4:30 pm.
