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The Japan News/Yomiuri
The Japan News/Yomiuri
National
The Yomiuri Shimbun

Geiko, maiko have spring in their step

Geiko and maiko dancers in their final rehearsal for the Miyako Odori festival at the Minamiza Theatre in Kyoto on Sunday. (Credit: The Yomiuri Shimbun)

KYOTO -- Geiko and maiko danced in gorgeous costumes at the final rehearsal Sunday for the annual Miyako Odori festival, which opened Monday and runs through April 27 at the Minamiza Theatre in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto.

Gion Kobu Kaburenjo theater, the usual home venue of the event, has been closed for seismic strengthening works since 2016, and so the Minamiza was chosen to host this year's festival for the first time in 67 years. The theme of this year's event is a wish of happiness and prosperity for the new Emperor to be enthroned in May.

At the dress rehearsal, about 50 geiko and maiko wore costumes based on those worn in the performance 67 years ago. They danced elegantly in front of a huge picture depicting a scene of cherry blossoms in the Daikakuji temple, which has a connection with the Imperial family, getting a big round of applause from invited guests.

Read more from The Japan News at https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/

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