The autumn performance "Kotobuki-kai" of the geisha district of Kamishichiken began on November 13, 2024, at the Kamishichiken Kaburenjo Theater in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City. The eve of the festival was held on November 12, and 16 geisha and maiko, totaling 16, enchanted the invited guests with a variety of performances, from innocent and adorable dances to skilled and expressive dances.
The Kotobuki-kai is a traditional stage where geisha and maiko show off their improved skills. The 73rd autumn performance opened with the Nagauta "Ise Mairi," in which the performers danced lightly, weaving in the scenery of the road to Ise Shrine, which was popular during the Edo period. In the Nagauta "Suisen Tanmae," which likens the young women to daffodils, the performers competed in style by swinging nearly two-meter-long hair spears.
The third piece was the Kiyomoto piece "Origami" performed by four maiko, depicting the actresses frolicking in fantasy as they reminisced about childhood games. The final piece was the Nagauta piece "Makurajishi." A distressed courtesan eventually goes crazy and transforms into a lion, and the heroic climax of her performance drew thunderous applause from the audience.
Until November 18th. Performances start every day at 4pm. 10,000 yen. Kamishichiken Kabu-kai: 075 (461) 0148.
