Nagauta and Geisha: Treasured Traditions of Japan【HKAF 2025】Hong Kong Arts Festival

The Art of Geiko and Maiko in Gion

Gion Higashi, one of five hanamachi districts in Kyoto, is bringing its song and dance show performed by geiko (the Kyoto term for geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) to Hong Kong. This special performance of Fujima School dancing and nagauta music promises an unforgettable afternoon, combining the elements of Gion Odori and Mimakai performances which are held annually by Gion Higashi.

The performance on 4 March will feature a classical dance selection, beginning with an ancient celebration song and concluding with an ensemble piece that vividly depicts ships battling wind and waves.

On 5 March, the geiko and maiko will perform a reinterpretation of a Kyogen play and an elegant piece with sarashi, a traditional Japanese cotton cloth. The day will culminate in a challenging performance portraying a man who is consumed by love and dances with illusions.

Songs and Strings of Tradition

Seldom performed outside of Japan, nagauta (long song) was established as a musical accompaniment to Kabuki theatre in the 18th century and became an independent genre in the 19th century. Nowadays, the nagauta repertoire features as many as 700 songs, shining not only in Kabuki performances but also frequently heard at concerts where they are played on the shamisen, as well as on traditional Japanese flutes and drums.
Kineya Katsuroku, a core member of the largest nagauta organisation Kinekatsu-Kai, and Japanese drum master Jukaku Nakamura together with other masters will be performing a series of epic songs that narrate the tale of famous samurai Minamoto Yoshitsune on 4 March.
Fantastical tunes that tell the story of a female servant possessed by the spirit of a lion, as well as picturesque music representing the Edo period, will be performed on 5 March.

Both performances will feature dances by geiko and maiko.

A Day with Geiko and Maiko

The geiko and maiko of Kyoto usually perform in private settings such as ochaya and restaurants, where they dance to the accompaniment of shamisen and songs performed by senior geiko. However, such shows are often restricted to regular customers or invited guests, making it hard for the general public to experience the traditional hospitality they provide.
But now, at the upcoming HKAF, the artistry of geiko and maiko can be closely experienced in a special setting at Nan Lian Garden, where audience members can enjoy the dancing and singing of geiko and maiko in a casual and intimate atmosphere. Don’t miss this chance to interact with them during traditional Japanese party games!

2024-03-04 ~ 03-05 ：Approx. 1 hr 15 mins including one interval
2024-03-07 ~ 03-08 ：Approx. 1 hr with no interval