Showing posts with label Japan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Japan. Show all posts

Sunday, January 19, 2025

Four-week introductory class with Pittsburgh Taiko, starting February 2.


The next set of introductory taiko classes with Pittsburgh Taiko will begin February 2.
Learn taiko drumming with Pittsburgh Taiko!

On Sunday mornings starting February 2, Pittsburgh Taiko will hold a four-week introductory class. This class is for people who are interested in joining our performing group or anyone who wants to just give taiko a try.

Taiko combines energetic hits with calm focus, balances group unity with individual expression, and requires both power and subtlety.  

Thursday, January 16, 2025

Sailor Moon musical Sailor Moon: The Super Live in Pittsburgh, March 12.


A Sailor Moon musical Sailor Moon: The Super Live will play in Pittsburgh on March 12 as the first stop in this year's North American tour.
Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live, the groundbreaking 2.5D musical, is bringing the iconic “Sailor Moon” world to life across North America like never before. This stunning stage adaptation—based on the legendary manga and anime—transports audiences into a dazzling world of magic, friendship and justice with its electrifying performances, unforgettable choreography and show-stopping music.
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust provides more detail:
Producers Makoto Matsuda (appare) and Kumiko Yoshii (Gorgeous Entertainment) announced that following its sensational month-long engagement in London, Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live, the world-wide smash hit 2.5D musical sensation based on the wildly popular manga (comic book), will launch a North American tour this March with technical rehearsals and previews held in Pittsburgh, PA and an official opening on March 15 in Austin, TX and in partnership with SXSW (South by SouthWest). www.sailormoonsuperlive.com. With book, lyrics and direction by Kaori Miura (Musical: The Prince of Tennis, Tokyo Revengers The Musical), choreography by Satomi Toma, and music by Go Sakabe and KYOHEI, the visually stunning show follows the stories of Usagi Tsukino, a teenage girl who transforms into the heroic Sailor Moon. Together, with her fellow Sailor Guardians, she battles many dark forces to protect the Earth from evil.

With a mix of action, heartfelt moments, and iconic music, this production sees the manga characters brought to life on stage, in an epic story-telling live show experience guaranteed to wow audiences night after night, creating an unforgettable experience for fans and newcomers alike. Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live will be performed in Japanese with English subtitles.

“At its very basic, ‘Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon’ is about 5 girlfriends banding together to fight for what they believe in... that’s timely,” said writer and director Kaori Miura. “Sailor Moon and her fellow guardians are equipped with powers that help them defeat evil and the characters are imbued with the self-determination to have agency and make their own confident decisions. In short, they are the ultimate example of ‘girl power.’”
It will play at the Byham Theater in downtown's Cultural District (map) and tickets will go on sale January 31 at 10:00 am EST.

2024 Japanese animated film The Colors Within (きみの色) in Pittsburgh, from January 23.


The 2024 Japanese animated film The Colors Within (きみの色) will play in Pittsburgh-area theaters from January 23.
Totsuko is a high school student with the ability to see the ‘colors’ of others. Colors of bliss, excitement, and serenity, plus a color she treasures as her favorite. Kimi, a classmate at her school, gives off the most beautiful color of all. Although she doesn’t play an instrument, Totsuko forms a band with Kimi and Rui, a quiet music enthusiast they meet at a used bookstore in a far corner of town. As they practice at an old church on a remote island, music brings them together, forming friendships and stirring affections. Will they discover their true 'colors'?
It is scheduled to play locally at the Cinemark theater in Robinson through the 29th, and tickets for shows dubbed in English and in Japanese with English subtitles are available online.

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Lunar New Year Archives & Special Collections Gallery Talk: East Asian Book Culture, January 29 at University of Pittsburgh.

The University of Pittsburgh Library System will host "Lunar New Year Archives & Special Collections Gallery Talk: East Asian Book Culture" on January 29.
Join us to hear directly from curator Runxiao Zhu, Head of the East Asian Library at the University of Pittsburgh Library System (ULS), about the exhibit "Beyond the Page: Exploring East Asian Book Culture and Printing Technology"!

In this exhibit, discover the intricate artistry and cultural significance behind historical texts from China and Japan, spanning from the 12th to the 20th century. From the scholar's desk to the printer's workshop, explore the innovative techniques and materials that shaped the way knowledge was preserved and shared. Learn about the symbolism and artistry of woodblock prints, the elegance of thread-bound books, and the unique formats of scrolls and accordion books.

As we usher in a new lunar year, let's celebrate the rich cultural heritage and technological advancements that continue to inspire and influence our world today!

All items on display are part of Archives & Special Collections and other ULS collections.  
The talk runs from 12:00 to 1:00 pm at the 3rd Floor Exhibit Cases of Hillman Library (map).

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective: The Space Between at Contemporary Craft, February 7 – May 3.


Contemporary Craft will host Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective: The Space Between from February 7 through May 3, with a free artist-led tour on February 8. From today's press release:

Contemporary Craft Announces Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective: The Space in Between

 

PITTSBURGH, PA (January 2025) – Contemporary Craft is excited to announce its upcoming exhibition, Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective: The Space Between, on view February 7 – May 3, 2025. The exhibition features a comprehensive survey of California-based artist Keiko Fukazawa’s 40-year career, showcasing new works and archival materials. The opening reception will take place on Friday, February 7, 5:30 – 8:00 PM.

 

Influenced by her Japanese heritage and American environment, Fukazawa explores Asian pop culture and social issues through conceptual interpretations of traditional forms. Featuring 30 pieces, the exhibition is organized into three themes: “Culture Clash,” “ARTivism,” and “In Betweenness,” reflecting stages of Fukazawa’s creative evolution as an immigrant artist navigating cultural identities.

 

Through her use of porcelain, Fukazawa highlights ceramic artistry, process, and history advocating for the medium’s importance in the contemporary world. Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective offers a compelling narrative of artistic journey and cultural dialogue, showcasing Fukazawa’s enduring commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining the intersection of tradition, innovation and materiality with her practice.

 

Keiko Fukazawa's work is eclectic, poignant and thought-provoking, exploring themes through distinctive material choices and symbolic representation. This retrospective spans 40 years of her creative evolution, weaving together her Japanese heritage and American environment through conceptual exploration”, said Yu-San Cheng, CC Director of Exhibitions and Operations. “The exhibition invites the audience on an emotional experience, evoking contemplation and insight as they engage with each piece. I hope these selections move you and inspire reflection."

 

Opening Weekend Events

 

Opening Reception: Friday, February 7, 5:30 – 8:00 PM. Free and open to the public. Join us as we celebrate the opening of Keiko Fukazawa Retrospective: The Space Between. Light refreshments will be served.

Artist Talk: Saturday, February 8, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Free, registration required. Keiko Fukazawa will be in the gallery discussing her work and answering questions from visitors.

2024 Japanese animated film The Colors Within (きみの色) in Pittsburgh, from January 23.


The 2024 Japanese animated film The Colors Within (きみの色) will play in Pittsburgh-area theaters from January 23.
Totsuko is a high school student with the ability to see the ‘colors’ of others. Colors of bliss, excitement, and serenity, plus a color she treasures as her favorite. Kimi, a classmate at her school, gives off the most beautiful color of all. Although she doesn’t play an instrument, Totsuko forms a band with Kimi and Rui, a quiet music enthusiast they meet at a used bookstore in a far corner of town. As they practice at an old church on a remote island, music brings them together, forming friendships and stirring affections. Will they discover their true 'colors'?
It is scheduled to play locally, so far, at the Cinemark theater in Robinson through the 29th, though more locations are likely to be announced later. Tickets for the English-dubbed shows are available online now, with shows in Japanese with English subtitles likely to follow.

Monday, January 6, 2025

Pittsburgh Japanese School still recruiting new teachers.


The Pittsburgh Japanese School, which provides Japanese-language education on Sundays to kids from preschool through high school, is still recruiting teachers and volunteers, particularly those qualified to teach preschool and elementary school level. A Pennsylvania teaching certificate is not required, but requirements beyond native-like fluency include work authorization in the United States and a college degree with a demonstrated ability to teach Japanese.

国際社会の未来を担う子供達を育てる、やりがいのある仕事です。

◆常勤講師3名

︎米国内で就労可能なビザ(E2,L2を含む)またはグリーンカードを有している方。

︎短大卒以上で日本語での指導が確かな方。

︎教員免許がなくても子供が好きで教育熱心な方。

︎平日に仕事を持っていても、開校日のために授業の前準備や採点処理が出来る方。

Friday, January 3, 2025

One Piece Music Symphony with Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, January 25 and 26.


The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra will perform One Piece Music Symphony on January 25 and 26.
The most memorable moments of the beloved TV series will be projected on a giant screen to the sound of a 50-musician orchestra!

It is time for an epic array of music full of action and emotion! Immerse yourself in the magic of a full orchestra as it performs One Piece’s iconic music live on stage, while the greatest moments from the anime come to life on screen in perfect sync. Relive the thrilling adventures of the Straw Hat Crew, all set to the vibrant sounds of the series’ most memorable music!

Join us for a special anniversary world tour that showcases a brand-new program from the world of One Piece. Experience the highlights from 25 years of adventures, including unforgettable moments with the entire Straw Hat Crew, all presented in a film concert with a giant screen projection! The music program of the One Piece Music Symphony will feature fan favorite songs like “We Are!,” “Sai sai saikyo!!!,” “Oitsumerareta,” and “Binks no Sake”, along with some new pieces specifically made for this anniversary celebration.

Thursday, January 2, 2025

1962 Japanese film Harakiri (切腹) in Pittsburgh, January 9 - 15.


The 1962 animated film Harakiri (切腹) will play in Pittsburgh from January 9 through 15.
In 18th-century Edo, a masterless samurai (Tatsuya Nakadai) wanders into the virtuous House of Iyi, asking to commit ritual seppuku (suicide). He is met with skepticism by the clan’s retainers, who have learned of drifting ronin making similar requests as a means of extortion. Nevertheless, the samurai promises to disembowel himself, but not before imparting the tragic circumstances that have led him to this final act. Adorned by stunning chiaroscuro compositions, an unnerving Toru Takemitsu score, and a bitingly acerbic script by Kurosawa scribe Shinobu Hashimoto, director Masaki Kobayashi’s slow-burn rebuke of authority culminates in a scathing takedown of the bushido code and the shallow valor it vowed to uphold.
It plays in Japanese with English subtitles at the Harris Theater in downtown's Cultural District (map) and tickets are available online.

Wednesday, January 1, 2025

2006 Japanese animated film Paprika (パプリカ) in Pittsburgh, January 8, 9, and 12.


The 2006 Japanese animated film Paprika (パプリカ) will play in Pittsburgh on January 8, 9, and 12, part of the 2024-2025 Anime Expo Cinema Nights series.
Anime Expo Cinema Nights presents the 15th anniversary and a 4K restoration of the last film ever made by visionary director Satoshi Kon with his mind-bending thriller PAPRIKA. When a machine that allows therapists to enter their patients’ dreams is stolen, all hell breaks loose. Only a young female therapist, Paprika, can stop it.
It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and the Cinemark in Robinson. Tickets are available online; the shows on the 8th and 12th are in Japanese with English subtitles, while the shows on the 9th are dubbed in English.

Tuesday, December 31, 2024

Shabu Shabu Hot Pot and Grill in McCandless eyes January opening.

Photos from March 2024.

Shabu Shabu Hot Pot and Grill in McCandless is aiming for a January opening. Work has been underway at the spot in McCandless Crossing---across from LaRoche University and in the outparcel shared with Midwest Shooting Center (map)---since July 2023.

Shabu Shabu Hot Pot and Grill is among at least six all-you-can-eat Hot Pot and BBQ places planned for the Pittsburgh area since mid-2023 and in various stages of completion, including: Korean BBQ in Oakland, Kpot in Squirrel Hill, Top Pot Hotpot & Korean BBQ in the Southside, and a second Shabu Shabu Hot Pot and Grill in Robinson; Hong BBQ & Hot Pot on McKnight Road is the only place to have opened so far. Running Dish was announced this fall for the Waterfront, planning to offer revolving sushi and Korean BBQ, but there is no timetable for completion.

Sunday, December 29, 2024

2001 Japanese animated film Cowboy Bebop: The Movie (カウボーイビバップ 天国の扉) in Pittsburgh, February 5, 6, and 9.


The 2001 Japanese animated film Cowboy Bebop: The Movie (カウボーイビバップ 天国の扉) will play in Pittsburgh on February 5, 6, and 9, part of an Anime Expo Cinema Nights series.
Caught up in a world of dreams, lost in the cruelty of reality. What should have been an easy bounty turns into biological war after a terrorist gets hold of a deadly virus. Drawn in by the pretty price on the mastermind's head, Spike and the Bebop crew are ready to collect a much-needed reward. Unfortunately, the gang's about to find themselves in more trouble than money when the terrorist threatens to unleash the virus on Halloween--effectively killing everyone on Mars. With little time and leads that seem more dreamy than helpful, they'll have to use their own bag of tricks to stop a dangerous plot.
It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and the Cinemark theater in Robinson, and tickets are available online.

Friday, December 27, 2024

"International Poetry Forum Presents: Kimiko Hahn" at City of Asylum, January 5.


The City of Asylum will host "International Poetry Forum Presents: Kimiko Hahn " on January 5.
City of Asylum welcomes Kimiko Hahn, winner of the 2023 Ruth Lilly Prize, for a reading and discussion of the influence haiku poet Matsuo Bashō has had on her work, particularly The Narrow Road to the Interior. Matsuo Bashō is recognized as the greatest master of Haiku, legitimizing the art form and paving the way for poets like Kimiko Hahn to carry on and expand upon his legacy.
The free event runs from 3:00 to 4:00 pm at Alphabet City (map), and tickets are available online.

Thursday, December 26, 2024

Pittsburgh's Kyuramen opening December 27, Cranberry location a couple months away.


Kyuramen has announced a grand opening for its Pittsburgh location for December 27, this time with an updated graphic featuring baseball players rather than Philadelphia landmarks. Its social media team has acknowledged the Cranberry location is about two months away.
All of our ramen are carefully developed by our ramen masters. The founder of KYURA MEN studied and absobed [sic] the essence of the Japanese ramen, to create the most unique and rich Ramen dish. The carefully crafted "white", "thick", “fresh” and “fragrant” soup bases are served with a fresh Japanese-style pork roast, a 7 minute boiled egg, and a pair of chopped green onions. DELICIOUS!
The national ramen chain's first Pittsburgh restaurant will be located at 6204 Penn Ave. at Eastside Bond (map), and will be accompanied by TBaar, a chain of bubble tea shops. The Cranberry location is in the "Streets of Cranberry" development, between Condado Tacos and Rally House. The ramen place is stylized Kyuramen, KYURAMEN, and Kyu Ramen at various times.

Kyuramen is one of several large national and international Asian chains to come to Pittsburgh in recent years---in addition to Paris Baguette, Tous Les Jours, Fresh International Market, Yi Fang, Kura Revolving Sushi, among many others---and though some may look askance at chains, it also represents the growth of Pittsburgh's food landscape that companies that ignored Pittsburgh for the last decade or two are recognizing its appetites.

Monday, December 23, 2024

KYURAMEN opening first Pittsburgh location, December 27.


KYURAMEN has announced its first Pittsburgh location will open on December 27. It will be located at 6204 Penn Ave. at Eastside Bond (map), and will be accompanied by TBaar, a chain of bubble tea shops.
All of our ramen are carefully developed by our ramen masters. The founder of KYURA MEN studied and absobed [sic] the essence of the Japanese ramen, to create the most unique and rich Ramen dish.

The carefully crafted "white", "thick", “fresh” and “fragrant” soup bases are served with a fresh Japanese-style pork roast, a 7 minute boiled egg, and a pair of chopped green onions. DELICIOUS!
The national ramen chain, sometimes stylized Kyu Ramen and Kyuramen, was first announced for Pittsburgh in July 2023. A second location in Cranberry remains under construction.

The Pittsburgh announcement graphic features the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, both of which are in Philadelphia, and tagline for the Sunflower State, Kansas.

Sunday, December 22, 2024

Guided Tour - 芸 [Gei ]: The Beauty of Ephemeral and Eternal, January 18 at Contemporary Craft.


On the last day of the 芸 [Gei ]: The Beauty of Ephemeral and Eternal exhibit at Contemporary Craft, January 18, the gallery will offer a free guided tour from 11 am to 12 pm.

芸[Gei]: The Beauty of Ephemeral and Eternal invites viewers to explore the captivating duality of Japanese Sogetsu Ikebana and craft, highlighting the profound cultural connections woven through these art forms. Ikebana (生け花, living flowers), the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement, captures the fleeting beauty of nature. Conversely, we celebrate the eternal through masterful craft objects. These objects embody enduring skill and meticulous attention to detail. From exquisite ceramics to intricate metal and wood sculptures, these crafts echo with the wisdom and patience of their makers, preserving techniques practiced over generations while celebrating individuality and collaboration. Join Contemporary Craft on a artist-led guided tour of GEI !

Admission is free, please consider donating to support the sustainability of our public programs.

Tickets are available online. Contemporary Craft is a gallery and creative space that broadly states its mission as "To engage the public in creative experiences through contemporary craft.." It is located at 5645 Butler St. in Lawrenceville (map).

Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Japanese metal band HANABIE。returns to Pittsburgh, March 12.


Japanese metal band HANABIE。will return to Pittsburgh on March 12, part of their US tour with Kim Dracula. Their Reddit fanpage provides an introduction:
Loud rock band HANABIE。formed at their school light music club in June 2015. Centering in Kichijōji, Tokyo, they started performing live around areas such as Shinjuku and Tachikawa.

The sound of Hanabie features the sound mixture of metalcore, hardcore, Hip-Hop, and J-POP. Their 1st album, "Girls Manifest" was released in 2020. With this album, they have established their own genre "HARAJUKUCORE"

Their live performances have a speed and power that exceeds expectations and captivates their audience. Yukina's powerful screaming/growling vocals never leave anyone without being amazed, along with this excellent melodic lines given by the clean voice of Matsuri, this is a complete basis for an amazing metalcore band but as for them it isn't enough they add different layers of voices between rap lines. If vocally they are great, in the instrumental part they're not left behind, aggressive, heavy, and dynamic. Certainly to define this band you need at least two words: dynamic and powerful.
The band played Preserving Underground in New Kensington in September 2023 and the Roxian Theatre in September 2024.

Ticket presale for the all ages show at the Roxian Theatre in McKees Rocks (map), 6:30 pm, is happening now.

Monday, December 16, 2024

1962 Japanese film Harakiri (切腹) in Pittsburgh, January 9 - 15.


The 1962 animated film Harakiri (切腹) will play in Pittsburgh from January 9 through 15.
In 18th-century Edo, a masterless samurai (Tatsuya Nakadai) wanders into the virtuous House of Iyi, asking to commit ritual seppuku (suicide). He is met with skepticism by the clan’s retainers, who have learned of drifting ronin making similar requests as a means of extortion. Nevertheless, the samurai promises to disembowel himself, but not before imparting the tragic circumstances that have led him to this final act. Adorned by stunning chiaroscuro compositions, an unnerving Toru Takemitsu score, and a bitingly acerbic script by Kurosawa scribe Shinobu Hashimoto, director Masaki Kobayashi’s slow-burn rebuke of authority culminates in a scathing takedown of the bushido code and the shallow valor it vowed to uphold.
It plays in Japanese with English subtitles at the Harris Theater in downtown's Cultural District (map) and tickets are available online.

Pittsburgh Japanese School still recruiting new teachers.


The Pittsburgh Japanese School, which provides Japanese-language education on Sundays to kids from preschool through high school, is still recruiting teachers and volunteers, particularly those qualified to teach preschool and elementary school level. A Pennsylvania teaching certificate is not required, but requirements beyond native-like fluency include work authorization in the United States and a college degree with a demonstrated ability to teach Japanese.

国際社会の未来を担う子供達を育てる、やりがいのある仕事です。

◆常勤講師3名

︎米国内で就労可能なビザ(E2,L2を含む)またはグリーンカードを有している方。

︎短大卒以上で日本語での指導が確かな方。

︎教員免許がなくても子供が好きで教育熱心な方。

︎平日に仕事を持っていても、開校日のために授業の前準備や採点処理が出来る方。

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

2006 Japanese animated film Paprika (パプリカ) in Pittsburgh, January 8, 9, and 12.


The 2006 Japanese animated film Paprika (パプリカ) will play in Pittsburgh on January 8, 9, and 12, part of the 2024-2025 Anime Expo Cinema Nights series.
Anime Expo Cinema Nights presents the 15th anniversary and a 4K restoration of the last film ever made by visionary director Satoshi Kon with his mind-bending thriller PAPRIKA. When a machine that allows therapists to enter their patients’ dreams is stolen, all hell breaks loose. Only a young female therapist, Paprika, can stop it.
It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and the Cinemark in Robinson. Tickets are available online; the shows on the 8th and 12th are in Japanese with English subtitles, while the shows on the 9th are dubbed in English.

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