Yoshikazu Fujimoto, Chieko Kojima, Yoko Fujimoto and Motofumi Yamaguchi came together on Sado Island connected by the performing arts when they joined Kodo's antecedent group Sado no Kuni Onedekoza, and these four were among the founding members of Kodo. These performers will form the heart of special concerts on Sado Island, filled with a deep gratitude for Sado and made possible by Kodo's three decades of activities. In the various seasons of 2012, come to Sado for a special experience, away from the city and everyday life.
The performances will take place at Shukunegi Community Hall, the historic venue used for Onedekoza Summer School and Kodo Summer School, which is located in the Ogi area where Kodo's activities are based. In particular, Shukunegi prospered as a port of call for the Kitamaebune cargo ships that sailed the Japan Sea during the Edo period, to the extent that it was said to "have one third of Sado's wealth." It is the only national Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in Niigata Prefecture, and when you step into this unique townscape, it feels like time stands still. Shukunegi Community Hall, with its eye-catching color and retro-feel, used to be a playhouse.
Shukunegi Community Hall, Ogi Area, Sado Island