“Once-in-a-Lifetime Smiles” by Hayato Otsuka
Mar. 23, 2018
We had a day off in Tallinn, the day before our performance there. It’s a lovely city with buildings dating back to the middle ages.
The town is adorned with elaborate details.
Even at the restaurants, their consideration showed through their attention to detail.
I felt fulfilled and full: my body, soul, and stomach!
Also, many people attended and enjoyed our performance.
After back-to-back performances in Switzerland and one performance in Estonia, today we are heading to Finland. Right now, I feel keenly aware that every trip is a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
From the devoted agents who have presented Kodo for many years
to the many wonderful supporters who facilitate our performances.
The audiences who welcome us with passion and enthusiasm.
The atmosphere and history of each venue.
The unique characteristics and background of each country.
The taiko and us, the performers.
All these people and elements come together for each performance and meld together to create sound each night.
There is nothing I take for granted, not even breathing the air in a place I visit on tour.
Each time we are on stage, a glimmering chemical reaction is created that we can only encounter right there and then.
While I sometimes feel a sense of inevitability, every time I’m on stage it never fails to feel new and wondrous.
For that reason, I want to always reflect on the value of each moment.
I want to continue to sense all those moments
And among those moments are the occasions when everyone smiles.
They are all once-in-a-lifetime encounters.
I will always treasure these feelings and sensations.
