Chindonya, the Japanese Art of Street Advertising Live Performance at my Hometown

It was my first time to visit my cousin's alma mater. The Consulate Office of Japan took the initiative to introduce the art of street advertisement in my beloved hometown. It was indeed a spectacular showcase of talent from 2 Japanese live performers.

The male performer revealed that he was born and raised as a Roman Catholic Christian, he is a believer and it is awesome that he shared about his belief and faith. The venue of the event took place in a Roman Catholic institution, a college founded by nuns and priest.

I am glad to witness such incredible talent and Japanese culture, it was fantastic and very unique.

There was a 10 minute health break before the actual performance begins.

The 2 Chindonya performers were introduced first and had their prelude performance.

The Vice Consul Lady played the role of the interpreter at the event as the performers mostly speak in the Japanese language and only spoken few English words or phrases.

I was seated at the back and thought my seat was fine then I realized that I should have seated at the front row so I could see them clearly and took nicer photos and videos of them. I should have been there earlier than the time to start the program.

I was just surprised that of all venues why would they choose this school to perform it, then when the male performer said that he is a Catholic right then I understood why it was held there. I saw the connection.

The students were responsive and receptive. They participated actively and they were good audience.

The Japanese performers introduced the history of Chindonya.

It was interesting as it already begun many years ago.

The art of street advertising in Japan actually evolved.

The performance include playing musical instruments 3 in 1 percussion that includes a cymbal and 2 different sizes of drums all attached in to 1 and a wind instrument a flute and clarinet.

The performers also had some comical skit a sort of drama role play all narrated in Nihongo.

They also had a fun dance and it was so nice to watch. The performers used mask and other props to catch the attention of the audience.

The male performer also performed a lion dance and it was believed to drive away bad luck or misfortune and bring in blessings and good luck.

There was also a question and answer portion with the audience and the students were very attentive and shared their thoughts. It was interactive making it more fun.

The male performer who did the lion dance actually roamed around and selected audience to bite some heads of those around as it was believed that those head who got bitten by the lion head will get fortune, luck or blessing throughout the year.

Sounds superstitious but I guess whether they believe it or not it always depends on the person on how they deal with their challenges in this life and circumstances that they face now.

Photos are mine.