#Japan #Tokyo #Noh Theater #Baroque music #Mari Niyama

Noh and Baroque: A Fusion of Traditions

A unique artistic event is set to take place on January 24, 2026, at the renowned Hosho Noh Theatre in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo. This performance, titled "Noh and Baroque: Folia – Madness and Prayer," is the inaugural event of a new series called "Kizuna – Connecting" orchestrated by Shojin Academy and the DenBun Noh Project. The aim is to explore the potential of expression through dialogues across different artistic disciplines, focusing on collaborations that blend Noh theatre and Baroque music.

The performance will feature esteemed Noh actor Noriyuki Umewaka, alongside Mariko Nishiyama, who plays the harpsichord and baroque harp, and violinist Naoto Sakitani. They plan to present a captivating mix of works, including Bach's "Chaconne" from the second partita for solo violin, Tartini's "Devil’s Trill Sonata," and Corelli's "Sonata da Chiesa: La Folia." This artistic blend promises to be not only a showcase of musical prowess and Noh theater but also an exploration of emotional and spiritual themes suggested by the title of the event.

To herald the performance, a press conference was held on December 15 in Tokyo. During this event, Umewaka shared his first experience dancing to classical music, which came about when a colleague invited him to perform to Bach over three decades ago. This moment set the stage for his exploration of Western classical music through various instruments such as the pipe organ and violin. Reflecting on the "Chaconne," he expressed, "I have danced to it five or six times. It has an image of human pursuit and communion with the divine, making it a very approachable piece for me." He also indicated that the structure of Tartini's composition employs a mirror-like theme, further enriching the performance.

Umewaka emphasized the universality of Noh forms, noting, "Even if the music shifts from traditional instruments to the violin, I can perform with the same sensation." As it's the first performance in this new series, he conveyed his sense of responsibility and excitement, stating that he is eager to test the boundaries of Noh’s forms and invite the audience to experience the possibilities live on stage.

Performer Profiles

Noriyuki Umewaka, Noh Actor

Born in 1956, Umewaka is the grandson of the 55th Umewaka Rokuro and has trained under his grandfather and Sakusetsu Umewaka. His debut performance took place at the age of five in the Noh play "Kurama Tengu". After garnering experience in various classical and contemporary Noh performances and international tours, he was awarded the Yokohama Cultural Award in 2022 and the Japan Art Academy Prize in 2025.

Mariko Nishiyama, Harpsichord and Baroque Harp

Nishiyama is an exceptional talent, known worldwide for her mastery of both the harpsichord and historical harp. After graduating from Tokyo University of the Arts, she continued her studies in Milan and Basel, winning multiple awards, including first place at the Yamanashi Early Music Competition.

Naoto Sakitani, Violin

Sakitani achieved first place in the junior division of the Novosibirsk International Competition and has a strong educational background with training in Germany, France, and Japan. He has collaborated with multiple orchestras and is a prominent figure in chamber music.

Event Details

• - Title: Kizuna – Connecting vol. 1 "Noh and Baroque: Folia – Madness and Prayer"
• - Date: January 24, 2026
• - Time: Opening at 1:00 PM, Performance at 2:00 PM
• - Venue: Hosho Noh Theatre, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo

Tickets

Tickets are available through the Confetti ticketing service. Prices are as follows:

• - SS Seat: ¥10,000
• - S Seat: ¥9,000
• - A Seat: ¥8,000
• - B Seat: ¥7,000

(All prices include tax)
For purchase and member benefits, visit Confetti.

This event promises to be a powerful convergence of Noh theatre and Baroque music, opening new avenues for artistic expression. Don’t miss out on this groundbreaking performance!