We will hold event of Rakugo in English, coming April. We will have rakugo performer Sayohime, she will demonstrate what is Rakugo and have workshop after her performance. Rakugo is a 400 year-old form of comedic Japanese storytelling that is still popular today. The story teller kneels on a Japanese cushion to tell a funny story written in dialogue format and uses two props ; a fan and Japanese cotton towel which can become many things such as wallets, or chopsticks. It had become the custom to include a "punch line" at the end of the story for added effect. 
Sayohime profile: When I was student, I devoted myself to performing musicals. I have performed Rakugo in English not only in Japanese but also in forein countries. (NY in 2005 NZ in 2006 SF 2007)since 2002. I watn to perform in smaller spaces where I can have a closer connection with my audience. I look forward to sharing the joy of Rakugo with you!
Website: http://www.ac.auone-net.jp/~sayohime/
* Date- April 1st, 8th and 16th *Time- 19:00-19:50 *Charge- FREE *Program- Introduction to Rakugo Sayohime’s performance Workshop *Place- NISHIYAMA RYOKAN Kyoto Nakagyo-ku, Gokomachi, Nijosagaru, Yamamoto-cho 075-222-1166 http://www.ryokan-kyoto.com/ 3mins walk from Subway Tozai Line, 'Kyoto shiyakusho-mae Stn' Zest-Oike Exit #10 3mins walk from 'Kyoto shiyakusyo-mae bus stop' Kyoto city bus #4, 205,17 from Kyoto Stn.
Sayohime profile: When I was student, I devoted myself to performing musicals. I have performed Rakugo in English not only in Japanese but also in forein countries. (NY in 2005 NZ in 2006 SF 2007)since 2002. I watn to perform in smaller spaces where I can have a closer connection with my audience. I look forward to sharing the joy of Rakugo with you!Website: http://www.ac.auone-net.jp/~sayohime/
* Date- April 1st, 8th and 16th *Time- 19:00-19:50 *Charge- FREE *Program- Introduction to Rakugo Sayohime’s performance Workshop *Place- NISHIYAMA RYOKAN Kyoto Nakagyo-ku, Gokomachi, Nijosagaru, Yamamoto-cho 075-222-1166 http://www.ryokan-kyoto.com/ 3mins walk from Subway Tozai Line, 'Kyoto shiyakusho-mae Stn' Zest-Oike Exit #10 3mins walk from 'Kyoto shiyakusyo-mae bus stop' Kyoto city bus #4, 205,17 from Kyoto Stn.