A Procession to the Shrine
Before the sun went down and, prior to festivities on the stage some offerings are made.
The parade is fairly small but, noisy.
Village dignitaries, lead the ceremony, carrying items to be presented the spirits.
They are followed by the shishimai, handler, Miruku and a small band.
The music consists of some gongs, sanshin and folks blowing conch shells.
A group of women in dark kimonos did some classical Okinawan dance.
These young guys were obviously playing the role of farmers.
In the past, I thought these were some hip hop crowd and, only took a few photos.
This year, I heard them singing about the ocean.
And, noticed that sabani paddle, center stage.
That's when, I realized, it's modern dance but, it is a form of art.
These youngsters are keeping Okinawan tradition alive and well.
So, I shot a few hundred photos while they performed.
The ladies in red, I have been photographing for years and years.
And, I still have no idea, what the story behind this dance might be.
For sure, these performers represent the working class.
They don't have shoes or socks and aren't wearing any fancy silk kimomos.
One of these days, I should buy a big bottle of sake and sit down with a dance instructor.
Then, get the story on all these traditional Okinawan dances.
Don't you think that would be the best way to getterdun ?
