Japan-Saudi Arabia Diplomatic Relations Celebrate 70th Anniversary with Kabuki Performance
The Consulate-General of Japan in Jeddah commemorates the milestone with a traditional Japanese cultural experience at teamLab Borderless museum.
JEDDAH: The Consulate-General of Japan in Jeddah marked the 70th anniversary of Japan-Saudi Arabia diplomatic relations on Wednesday by hosting an authentic Japanese cultural event.
Featuring a live Kabuki performance, the ceremony took place at the technologically advanced teamLab Borderless museum in Jeddah’s Historic Area.In an interview with Arab News, Consul-General Daisuke Yamamoto highlighted the dynamic development of their bilateral relationship, which has expanded beyond historical oil and gas trade to encompass diverse sectors such as petrochemicals, automotive manufacturing, medical equipment, and power plant construction.
Japanese companies have significantly contributed to these fields across Saudi Arabia, with expectations for further diversification, particularly in cultural exchange.This year's anniversary commemorates the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1955.
To celebrate this occasion, a Kabuki performance group was invited to Saudi Arabia for the first time, choosing teamLab Borderless as the venue symbolizing the collaboration between both nations.
The museum is known for its innovative use of lighting and projection to create art, making it an ideal setting to blend traditional Japanese performances with modern visual effects.The ceremony, attended by a select audience including consul generals, friends of the consulate, and media representatives, took place in the Waterfall Hall of the museum.
The hall was adorned with immersive digital art installations that complemented the live music performance, with visuals of birds in flight, cascading waterfalls, and blooming sunflowers.Kento Watanabe, the producer of the show, expressed gratitude for being invited to Jeddah, emphasizing that the audience would witness one of Japan’s most celebrated traditional performing arts.
The Kabuki performance was led by Hayato Nakamura, a rising star from a distinguished family known for his expressive acting and elegant stage presence.Nakamura portrayed the legendary lion spirit in 'Shakkyo' (The Stone Bridge), captivating the audience with dynamic movements, elaborate costumes, and striking facial expressions.
Accompanying him were musicians Mitsuyoshi Sasaki II, Taisei Otoma, and Hikaru Ishii, playing the tsugaru shamisen and traditional wadaiko drums.Kabuki, a theatrical art form dating back over 400 years, combines drama, dance, and music with its distinctive style of storytelling.
It was recognized by UNESCO in 2008 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, reflecting its cultural importance.
Despite its historical roots, Kabuki continues to evolve by incorporating modern elements such as contemporary music and advanced stage technologies.The private Kabuki show held for dignitaries and invited guests will continue to be open to the public until November 6, between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. at teamLab Borderless Jeddah.
Featuring a live Kabuki performance, the ceremony took place at the technologically advanced teamLab Borderless museum in Jeddah’s Historic Area.In an interview with Arab News, Consul-General Daisuke Yamamoto highlighted the dynamic development of their bilateral relationship, which has expanded beyond historical oil and gas trade to encompass diverse sectors such as petrochemicals, automotive manufacturing, medical equipment, and power plant construction.
Japanese companies have significantly contributed to these fields across Saudi Arabia, with expectations for further diversification, particularly in cultural exchange.This year's anniversary commemorates the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1955.
To celebrate this occasion, a Kabuki performance group was invited to Saudi Arabia for the first time, choosing teamLab Borderless as the venue symbolizing the collaboration between both nations.
The museum is known for its innovative use of lighting and projection to create art, making it an ideal setting to blend traditional Japanese performances with modern visual effects.The ceremony, attended by a select audience including consul generals, friends of the consulate, and media representatives, took place in the Waterfall Hall of the museum.
The hall was adorned with immersive digital art installations that complemented the live music performance, with visuals of birds in flight, cascading waterfalls, and blooming sunflowers.Kento Watanabe, the producer of the show, expressed gratitude for being invited to Jeddah, emphasizing that the audience would witness one of Japan’s most celebrated traditional performing arts.
The Kabuki performance was led by Hayato Nakamura, a rising star from a distinguished family known for his expressive acting and elegant stage presence.Nakamura portrayed the legendary lion spirit in 'Shakkyo' (The Stone Bridge), captivating the audience with dynamic movements, elaborate costumes, and striking facial expressions.
Accompanying him were musicians Mitsuyoshi Sasaki II, Taisei Otoma, and Hikaru Ishii, playing the tsugaru shamisen and traditional wadaiko drums.Kabuki, a theatrical art form dating back over 400 years, combines drama, dance, and music with its distinctive style of storytelling.
It was recognized by UNESCO in 2008 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, reflecting its cultural importance.
Despite its historical roots, Kabuki continues to evolve by incorporating modern elements such as contemporary music and advanced stage technologies.The private Kabuki show held for dignitaries and invited guests will continue to be open to the public until November 6, between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. at teamLab Borderless Jeddah.
