PORO OYNA:
THE MYTH OF THE AINU
PORO OYNA was developed over three years in Hokkaido and Tokyo, Japan.
This production introduced five master Ainu musicians and innovators in their respective fields to US audiences. It provided a platform to further their cause of promoting their culture in a broader context. The production also offered a rare chance for audiences to experience the centuries-old sacred world of the Ainus and the complexity of Japanese cultural/social tapestry.
The Story
A long long time ago, there lived Aynu Rakkur, a demigod, by the sacred pond, Kaikaiunt in the northern land of Aynu. One day, the Evil Monster (with a name so long and vile nobody can pronounce) kidnaps the Sun Goddess when she was just emerging from the horizon. Numerous Kamuys (gods) have gone to rescue her in vain. Being at loss, kamuys come to Ainu Rakkur for help. Aynu Rakkur prepares for a battle, flies out to the Evil Monster’s castle on the sacred vehicle, Kamuy Shintur...
Performed
December 1, 2012 - Shiraoi Chuo Kouminkan, Shiraoi town, Hokkaido
November 27, 2012 - Nagareyama City Hall, Nagareyama, Chiba
November 24 & 25, 2012 - Asahi Art Square, Tokyo
December 14, 2011 - Asahi Art Square, Tokyo (Work-in-Progress Presentation)
January 10 & 11, 2014 - US Premiere at Dartmouth College, NH
January 15 – 19, 2014 - Fort Mason Center, San Francisco
