NYZ: Welcome the New Year with Noh

Noh is a traditional Japanese art form that combines music, dance, and drama, and was established in the 14th century. Today, Noh is commonly understood as a performing art, however in medieval Japan it was also practiced as a form of physical training and mindfulness. Through the teachings found in Noh plays, practitioners cultivated presence, awareness of the moment, and the ability to live well and endure challenges.

This workshop is designed for those who are new to Noh and offers an experiential introduction to Noh chanting (utai). Participants will learn to chant using deep breathing and internal core muscles. The workshop features Takasago, one of the most beloved Noh chants, which tells the story of pine trees symbolizing harmony, peace, and eternity. Through this practice, you will learn to ground your body, breathe deeply from your center, awaken your senses, and explore the unique vocal power of Utai.

Participants will also learn how to center the body through fundamental elements of Noh movement, including the formal stance (kamae), sliding steps (suriashi), and stylized dance movements (kata).

The workshop will be held at New York Zendo – an ideal setting to reconnect with yourself, clear your mind, and awaken your awareness through the power of voice. Expect a meditative yet energizing experience that engages your whole body.

About the instructor: Mayo Miwa (三輪万葉) majored in Noh theater at Tokyo University of the Arts and trained at the Kanze School in Japan. As Vice President of the Noh Society, she actively facilitates educational programs with Japanese actors and teaches at various US institutions. She is dedicated to sharing Noh’s timeless art, exploring how it can inspire the mind and body, and how it may continue to evolve in today’s world.

Instruction will be offered in both Japanese and English, and no prior experience is necessary. The fee for this workshop is $30 for nonmembers and $25 for Zen Studies Society (ZSS) members. Note that the member price is for ZSS members only – please consider becoming a Supporting Member. Please register and make payments via Paypal to gekyouman@gmail.com, for futher information please email info@miwamayo.com. ZSS Health Protocols apply.