We are excited to announce the release of the first chapter of the memoir of our Artistic Director, Sachiyo Ito. This poignant introduction gives us a glimpse into Sachiyo Ito's early life and what shaped her into the passionate artist she is today.
Chapters of Ito’s Memoir will be released in 12 monthly installments with a special theme for each chapter.
SACHIYO ITO’S MEMOIR
Table of Content:
Chapter 1: Poignant Memory
The memoir promises to give us an insight into the source of Sachiyo Sensei’s artistic drive and how she has overcome obstacles to introduce Japanese dance to the international stage since the early 1970s. Enjoy her journey of over 50 years spreading the arts and culture of Japan, and learn about this pioneering artist’s inspirational story.
Chapter 2: Dreaming the Possible Dream
In this chapter, Ito recalls the chance meetings that led to both influential support for her career and deep and lasting friendships; these supporters, both personal and professional, would help to make her dream of introducing Japanese dance to the world outside of Japan in the 1970s and 80s come true.
Chapter 3: In Honor of Women’s History Month: Machi Ito
In this chapter, Ito recounts formative experiences, crediting her mother, Machi Ito, for making her artistic career possible. We learn of Machi’s impressive accomplishments as an artist and trailblazing career woman in mid-20th century Japan. Sachiyo Sensei touchingly describes her mother’s quiet support through the meaningful gift of a dance fan case.
Chapter 4: Sakura (Cherry Blossom)
This chapter gives us a glimpse into Sachiyo Sensei’s thoughts on the ephemeral cherry blossom and what it represents to her as a Japanese dancer. She also shares stories of memorable performances from various cherry blossom festivals since 1981. As she reflects on unforgettable moments of seeing flowers and meeting people alike, she hopes her performances and teaching have left similarly indelible impressions on others. Like the exquisite but fleeting cherry blossoms she dances under, Sachiyo Sensei’s art reminds us to fully embrace the present.
Chapter 5: After 50 Years: Japan Parade and My 1970s
While in Chapter 4, Ito reflected on embracing the present, in this chapter, she walks the road of her past, contemplating the vast changes she has experienced over the years, both within herself and in the world around her. The stories of her performances and experiences as an immigrant span from the 1970’s to today, culminating in her participation in New York’s first (and every subsequent) Japan Parade.
Chapter 6: Transformation
In Chapter 6, titled “Transformation,” Ito reflects on many faces of transformation and change. Set against a backdrop of a societal shift - the beginning of the AIDS crisis in the early 1980s - she delves into the theme of transformation, central to her life and work as a Japanese dancer. Her personal stories offer a window into the transformative power of art, pride, and inspiration, serving as a testament to the resilience that comes from facing whatever changes the future may bring.
Chapter 7: Dojoji: Dojoji 2001 and 2002
In this poignant chapter, Ito delves into her reimagining of the classic Japanese legend of Dojoji. She recounts her journey of research, creation, and performance, challenging tradition to bring new life to this centuries-old tale. While exploring the symbolism of the temple bell, the transformative power of desire, and the universal themes of human attachment and destruction, she shares touching anecdotes about her collaborators and her creative process. Chapter 7 offers us a fascinating glimpse into Ito’s lifelong dedication to bridging Eastern and Western artistic sensibilities.
Chapter 8: Summer Festivals and My Roots
In Japan, August is the season of festivals celebrating the ancestors and acknowledging their place in the present day. In this chapter of Ito’s memoir, she delves into her search to find the roots of Japanese dance. Recounting the journey of her research into the ancestry of dance itself, she shares the stories of her travels and those of friends she meets along the way as she seeks the roots of her cultural heritage. Chapter 8 offers us a glimpse into the path that Ito walks as she explores the meaning of life as an artist.
Chapter 9: Rocky’s Kabuki to Montevideo
For many of us, September is when we embrace a time of transition – a time of new opportunities, new studies, and new friendships. Titled “Rockies Kabuki to Montevideo”, Ito shares her treasured experiences and encounters that have touched her heart and strengthened her mission in Chapter 9. This chapter recounts Ito’s tours around the USA, and other parts of the globe as an emissary of Japanese arts and culture. Enjoy her journey of over 50 years spreading the arts and culture of Japan, and learn about this pioneering artist’s inspirational story.