Daily report 7 / 13 January 2011

Today I observed the second training in dojo. I like the atmosphere in the dojo very much. Quiet and still surroundings and concentrated and dedicated work. Several exercises were practiced. It is amazing to see how a very little change makes a big difference in the quality of the movement.

Like for example in one exercise the movement has to change form big to small and back to big again. When this change is made the movement becomes very lively and gets it own rhythm. When the movement is done in the same speed and flow you see the action but the dynamic disappears.

To watch this process is very interesting. In relation to yesterday it was easy for me to attend the training although I could not understand all the instructions Fumio gave. In the movement the improvement is clearly visible. I enjoyed observing the training being fascinated by the beautiful movements and the dynamics which bring life into the action.

Fumio told me during and after his training he acknowledges the importance of the natural movement and exploring the authentic spirit in the simple movement. It resembles the teaching of Mr. Shimamoto, Aikido-sensei, which supported our theatre work in Coyote with his advice and training. I have great respect for the insights and the way Fumio trains his actors. They are very lucky to be educated by him.

    Rie & Helene

One of the actors, had done some research where I could see Kabuki, Noh and Bunraku performances during my stay in Tokyo. I would like it very much to see the traditional Japanese theatre. In the Netherlands the opportunity is very rare and you will always see a European program and never the original performance. During my earlier visits of Japan I have seen performances of Noh and Bunraku. And a very small part of a Kabuki performance. I like to follow the whole performance which lasts almost one day. It brings you in a special state of mind. So I am looking forward to experience this again!

After the training I had supper with Mihoko, Fumio and Michiko. Today we went to a fish-restaurant.  The Japanese food is so rich and has so many different flavors. I can't recall what we ate, but it tasted delicious.  Japan offers many treasures and it is wonderful being introduced to it by these very warm and lovely people of O-Getsu Ryu. I am having a great and inspiring time. I feel very lucky too....