On September 28, 2024, the final rehearsals were held at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, ahead of the autumn dance performance "Shushukai" (October 2-7) of the Gion Kobu Geisha District. The geisha and maiko danced in the same costumes as in the actual performance, checking their choreography and mannerisms.
Unlike the spring "Miyako Odori" where new works are performed, the Shushukai is a stage showcasing the results of daily efforts, focusing on songs handed down in the Inoue school of Kyomai. This year, 77 geisha and maiko will perform, performing six pieces each day out of the 12 pieces.
The final rehearsals began with "Hime Sanja" performed by eight maiko. They danced to auspicious Kagura-style songs with gohei and furiko drums in their hands. This was followed by "Toribeyama," a play based on a double suicide that is also known from Kabuki and has ties to Gion.
From the audience, Inoue Yachiyo, head of the Inoue school of Kyomai dance, and others watched the stage, giving instructions on posture and standing positioning. Inoue Yachiyo said, "I hope that everyone, from young people to veterans, will do their best so that they can feel the blossom of their respective age groups."
Performances start at 4pm every day. First class seats cost 10,000 yen, second class seats 8,000 yen, third class seats 6,000 yen. Gion Kobu Kabu Kai, phone number 075-561-1115, weekdays only.
