Celebrating 70 Years of Japan–Saudi Friendship - Salaam and Congratulations
As-salamu alaykum. The Consulate-General of Japan in Jeddah marked the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia on Wednesday by offering an authentic slice of Japanese culture: a traditional Kabuki performance.
The event was held at the teamLab Borderless museum in Jeddah’s Historic Area, a modern venue that uses lighting and projection to create immersive art. Japan’s Consul-General in Jeddah, Daisuke Yamamoto, told the press that the relationship between the two countries has grown beyond its original focus on oil and gas trade.
“In the past, the relationship mainly revolved around trade in oil and gas. However, it has now become much more diverse,” he said, noting collaboration in petrochemicals, automotive manufacturing, medical equipment, power plant construction and maintenance, and water desalination. He added that cultural exchange is expected to grow even more.
To mark the 70th anniversary of formal relations (established in 1955), a classical Kabuki troupe was brought to the Kingdom for the first time. The consul-general explained that teamLab Borderless was chosen because it represents the partnership between Japan and Saudi Arabia - a place where traditional performance can meet modern visual effects.
A small audience of consul generals, friends of the Japanese consulate and media attended the ceremony. The show took place in the museum’s “Waterfall Hall,” where digital art installations complemented the performance with visuals of birds, waterfalls and sunflowers.
Producer Kento Watanabe spoke before the show: “We flew from Tokyo for 20 hours to come to Jeddah. Thank you for inviting us for this very special day. What you are about to see is one of Japan’s most celebrated traditional performing arts.”
The performance was led by Hayato Nakamura, a talented young actor from a well-known Kabuki family, who performed “Shakkyo” (The Stone Bridge) and portrayed the legendary lion spirit with dynamic movement, striking costumes and traditional makeup. Musicians included Mitsuyoshi Sasaki II on the tsugaru shamisen and drummers Taisei Otoma and Hikaru Ishii on wadaiko, adding powerful rhythm to the presentation.
A brief note on Kabuki: it is a classical Japanese theatre form, more than 400 years old, known for stylized acting, elaborate costumes and distinctive makeup. Listed by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008, Kabuki continues to adapt by blending traditional elements with modern stage technology.
The private performance for invited guests was part of a run that will be open to the public through Nov. 6, with daily shows from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at teamLab Borderless Jeddah.
May such cultural exchanges continue to bring people together - congratulations to both nations on this milestone.
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