[The Tale of Princess Kaguya] Saiya Yosakoi Odoriko-tai | Kochi Yosakoi Festival | 2024 

[Team Introduction]
Saiya Yosakoi Odoriko-tai is a team based in Kochi City and Aki City, formed in 2010. The team was established when the first representative sought to invigorate the local Aki City's summer festival. Currently, the team consists of 150 dancers, mainly young people in their teens to twenties, with women making up 70-80% of the group. The team's goal is to "continue being a team that inspires the next generation, energizes the community, and is needed by everyone."
The theme for 2024 is "Kaguya," marking the 15th anniversary of the team's activities. This year's performance is inspired by the tale of Princess Kaguya from "The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter." Although the choreography is not created by a professional choreographer, but by the members themselves, the quality is high, delivering a captivating performance that enthralls the audience. The dance begins with a serene depiction of the return to the moon in the first half and transitions into a vibrant festival scene in the latter half, providing an impressive and engaging spectacle.
The costumes feature a traditional Japanese design, with blue as the base color for men and red for women, highlighted by the iconic twisted headbands. The Yataro Taiko musical troupe performs live on the float, greatly energizing the spectators.
[Yosakoi Festival]
The Yosakoi Festival is a lively event held annually from August 9th to 12th in Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture. The festival began in 1954 with the aim of revitalizing the local economy and uplifting the spirits of the citizens.
During the festival, approximately 190 teams and 20,000 dancers participate, performing energetic dances while holding naruko (wooden clappers). Each team competes with unique costumes, music, and choreography, performing at 17 different venues across Kochi City. On August 9th, the eve of the festival is celebrated, followed by the national competition and the closing ceremony on the 12th, enveloping the entire city in a festive atmosphere.
Due to its popularity, the Yosakoi Festival has spread across the country, with many regions hosting their own versions, such as the "YOSAKOI Soran Festival." It has also reached international shores, being held in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, France, South Korea, and Taiwan, where Japanese traditional culture merges with local cultures to create unique styles of Yosakoi.
The Yosakoi Festival plays an important role in regional revitalization and international exchange.
[About This Channel]
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