SIAC News: Chapter 16 of Sachiyo Ito's Memoir Released
Photo: Larry Thompson
Dear readers,
In Chapter 16, the continuation of her Salon Series exploration, Sachiyo Sensei takes us deeper into the cultural heart of Japan through her collaborative programs. This chapter reveals how she expanded beyond dance to explore Japanese literature, from classical works like the Heike Monogatari to contemporary poetry, creating innovative collaborations that brought ancient texts to life through movement. Sachiyo Sensei shares her profound investigation of "Ma"—the uniquely Japanese concept of space and time—demonstrating how she transformed intimate gallery spaces into sacred sanctuaries through dance, Buddhist chants, and audience participation. The chapter also chronicles her evolution from cultural education to universal human connection, culminating in deeply moving programs that addressed themes of healing, unity, and prayer during the time of the Covid crisis. Through 25 years and 77 programs, Sachiyo Sensei discovered that the Salon Series became not just a platform for sharing Japanese culture, but a laboratory for exploring our shared humanity. Her closing reflection on this remarkable series—that the more she learned about her art, the more she realized how little she truly knew—captures the humble wisdom of a master teacher.
Stay tuned for more chapters as Sachiyo Sensei continues to share her wisdom and experiences!
All the best,
Sachiyo Ito and Company
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*Founded in 1981 as a performing and educational not-for-profit organization (501-c-3), Sachiyo Ito and Company is dedicated to creating a bridge between Japan and USA through artistic performances and educational programs.
On October 23, 2011, a Mayoral Proclamation was awarded to Sachiyo Ito and Company for its significant contributions to the City of New York.