A Tapestry of Sacred Music: Iwami Kagura – Ritual Theatre of Shimane
PUBLISHED April 13th, 2015 04:53 am | UPDATED June 12th, 2020 04:16 pm
The coastal region of Shimane is a land steeped in Shinto mythology and significance, said to be the place where all the gods and deities gathered once a month in conference. It is also the birthplace of one of the most dynamic and vibrant forms of Japanese ritual theatre – Iwami Kagura. Masked dancers in colourful costumes take on the role of Shinto gods, battling eight headed demon snakes and other monsters in Japanese mythology, accompanied by drum beats, clanging symbols and soaring bamboo flutes. For generation upon generation, this folk art is practiced by ordinary townspeople and villagers in the autumn, to give thanks for a bountiful harvest. Infused with riveting drama and rich cultural history, Iwami Kagura takes audiences to a world of legend where gods and monsters walked the earth.
About A Tapestry of Sacred Music:
A Tapestry of Sacred Music invites you to seek fulfilment through paths illuminated by the sounds and voices of devotion. Immerse in sacred music from around the world as well as from different religious communities within our shores at this festival, and be moved by the beauty of these spiritually inspired traditions. Be it through the grandeur of the Concert Hall or the intimacy of an outdoor performance on the Courtyard lawn, soul-stirring encounters can be experienced throughout the centre.
This event is taking place on Friday, 17 April to Saturday, 18 April at the Esplanade Recital Studio.
To purchase tickets, please click [here](http://www.sistic.com.sg/events/iwami0415).
