#Japan #Cultural Exchange #Tokyo #USAGI Japan #A SEED

A New Collaboration Between USAGI Japan and A Seed

In an exciting development, USAGI Japan has partnered with the Ichiryumanbai Production Committee to launch the collaborative project, "Ichiryumanbai A SEED Paris Performance". This project aims to showcase Japanese culture on a grand stage in Paris, reaffirming the rich heritage and artistic expressions originating from Japan.

The announcement was made by USAGI Japan, located in Tokyo's Chuo Ward. This initiative will share details and progress on its dedicated media platform, USAGI Journal, ensuring that supporters and art enthusiasts are well-informed on the journey toward this ambitious Paris performance.

Background of Cooperation

This partnership stems from the inspiring meeting between Yasushi Matsuura, the producer, and USAGI Japan's management at Nihonbashi Kabutocho in Tokyo. The meeting highlighted a mutual appreciation for the cultural significance of Japanese arts. Matsuura's belief that the roots of performing arts lie in gratitude for a bountiful harvest resonates deeply in Japan's cultural narratives. In response to the pandemic in 2020, a special live performance titled "Ichiryumanbai A SEED - Opening of the Heavenly Rock Door" was held at the Tokyo Stock Exchange's TSE Arrows, emphasizing the concept of abundance through a singular seed. This event was a precursor, reflecting the vision of bringing Japanese cultural expressions to a global audience.

Nihonbashi Kabutocho, where this collaboration began, is rich in history as a place associated with influential figures like Eiichi Shibusawa, known for his critical contributions to Japan's industrial revolution. The location holds significance for its traditions, including ceremonial bell tolls during public offerings, symbolizing the growth from a single seed.

Through collaborative discussions, Matsuura articulated the artistic dreams of both him and his team, leading to a commitment to work together toward making these dreams come true in Paris.

What is "Ichiryumanbai A SEED"?

"Ichiryumanbai A SEED" is an artistic fusion developed by Yasushi Matsuura, drawing inspiration from Japan's ancient texts, such as the Kojiki. This project seeks to celebrate the country's birth, focusing on the gratitude embedded in a single grain of rice. The performance combines various art forms, including Noh, Kyogen, Ballet, traditional and modern dances, as well as both Japanese and Western music. By reinterpreting traditional arts and expressing them freely through music, dance, and clothing, the performance aims to engage diverse audiences and ignite curiosity about Japan's cultural depths, despite the cultural boundaries that exist.

Dreaming for the Future: Paris Performance

Looking ahead, Paris is destined to play host to the upcoming performance scheduled for 2026 or later. This city, a melting pot of creativity and culture, is considered an ideal setting to manifest the artistic ideals of Matsuura and his team. As USAGI Japan leverages its experience and connections, the project will eagerly promote Japanese culture through this artistic endeavor. Moreover, collaborators sharing a passion for cross-cultural exchanges, particularly those interested in enhancing Franco-Japanese relations, are invited to join this inspiring project.

The project's website will serve as an information hub, updating followers on progress and events leading up to the performance. The website can be found at: Ichiryumanbai A SEED Paris Performance.

USAGI Journal: A New Media Initiative

Additionally, USAGI Japan has introduced the USAGI Journal, a platform designed to facilitate thoughtful discourse on enriching personal lives, international exchange, and societal improvement. This platform will act as a neutral ground for communication and community management, aiming to promote various projects and engage in cultural exchanges actively. The USAGI Journal is envisioned as a facilitator for ideas to intersect and innovate, ensuring a diverse range of projects contribute to the community and broader society.

To discover more about upcoming initiatives, the USAGI Journal launches its content starting from June 6. More information can be accessed through the following URL: USAGI Journal. The platform emphasizes a content policy focused on collaboration with trusted teams, blending original reporting with a unique AI-assisted content creation process. The team envisions providing easily interpretable insights, outlining project developments, and highlighting partnerships along the way.

Project Execution Committee Overview

• - Organizer: Ichiryumanbai Production Committee (一般社団法人一粒萬倍制作委員会)
• - Representative Director: Yasushi Matsuura
• - Founded: April 1, 2021
• - Location: Tokyo, Ota Ward, Kuga Hara, 2-17-20 Asahi No. 1 Building
• - URL: Ichiryumanbai Production Committee

• - Collaborative Organizing and Management: USAGI Japan (株式会社ウサギ・ジャポン)
• - CEO: Takahiro Sano
• - Founded: December 25, 2024 (Established: March 3, 2016)
• - Location: Tokyo, Chuo Ward, Nihonbashi Kayabacho 1-5-8, Tokyo Stock Exchange Building B-313
• - URL: USAGI Japan