May 12th 2019 O.A.

2019 Cherry Blossom Festival

A cherry blossom festival was held at Monterey Park on April 27th and 28th.

This event is held by the Monterey Park Cherry Blossom Festival Committee and marks the 22nd year.
Many Japanese culture was introduced to the local people.

At the opening ceremony, Kimi Evans, a Japanese American working for ABC 7 Eyewitness News was awarded. Followed by the greetings speech of Chief Consul, Hiroki Matsuo and congressmen of both city and state.

A kimono fashion show, Japanese taiko performance and a demonstration of the tanabata decoration was held at the event. Ikebana flower arrangement exhibition and a tea ceremony happened inside.

This event started in 1970 with the “National Cherry Blossom Festival” that happens in Washington DC.
But it was once canceled due to the aging society in the 80s. With high demands, the event was brought back in 1997 by young 3rd generation Japanese Americans.

A Revolution in Movement

Sunday, April 8th was a demonstration and workshop held by Japanese Dance Master, Ichinosuke Umekawa.

This event was held by the Japan Foundation whose mission is to promote international cultural exchange. About 50 people who are Japanophiles and industry individuals attended.

Umekawa got into traditional Japanese art after signing up to The Tokyo Ballet. He then became a Kabuki actor after enrolling to the Kabuki Actor Training Division of the National Theatre.

He became a traditional dancer in 2016 and met Bando Tamasaburo.

Succeeding Bando’s skills, Umekawa aims a traditional yet modern dance that incorporates modern art.
At this event, Umekawa performed a popular Kabuki act “Renjishi” as well as Shostakovich “Cello Sonata” using classical Japanese and ballet movements.

At the end, everyone including the audience danced to “Genroku Hanami Dori” and enjoyed the event.