Takao Kawaguchi, who first came to REDCAT with the Tokyo-based collective Dumb Type, reimagines legendary works by revered Butoh master Kazuo Ohno in an original production that prompted both excitement and commotion in the Tokyo cultural scene. Any interpretation of the inimitable work of Kazuo Ohno requires the performer to suspend his personal beliefs and interpretation, in order to project his body onto the forms and contours of the aged dancer as precisely as possible. The result is a copy that is in itself an original, a choreography created by Kawaguchi with the illusory image of Ohno, one of the most honored artists in dance history. 

ADDITIONAL EVENTS

Coinciding with these performances, materials from the Kazuo Ohno Dance Studio in Yokohama, Japan and Japan Society’s archives including posters, video, costumes and other articles, will be displayed in REDCAT’s lobby after performances. 

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Saturday, October 8, 1 - 4pm 
Body Sculpting with Takao Kawaguchi
Takao Kawaguchi will lead participants in his creative process for About Kazuo Ohno - Reliving the Butoh Diva’s Masterpieces. After a discussion about Kazuo Ohno and viewing of archival footage, participants will sketch their images and create movements based on what they experienced.  

Limited Capacity. Some movement experience preferred. Participants are asked to bring their own video streaming device (phone, tablet, personal computer). Participants must wear socks and exercise wear.  

REDCAT (631 W. 2nd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012)
Free Admission / The workshop is full. Observers are welcome. If you would like to observe, RSVP to Rolando Rodriguez at rrodriguez@calarts.edu

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Monday, October 10, 7pm
Slow Body – Brain does not have sensation vol. 27, co-presented by Japan Foundation, Los Angeles & REDCAT
Solo, uninterrupted movement at an almost imperceptible speed, in the nude, for 70 minutes, surrounded by participants drawing the body.  

It’s about the body,
It’s about the speed, and
How you look at and feel the body  

Kawaguchi will dance in the nude as the participants carefully watch and sketch drawings of his movement/dance while listening to sound/music Kawaguchi selects (such as Steve Paxton’s voiceover sound recording, etc.). The participants can use any media to draw — pencil and charcoal. Smartphones may not be used.   

REDCAT  (631 W. 2nd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012)
Free Admission / RSVP Now