For over seventy years, Japan Society’s Performing Arts Program has enriched the arts in New York City, the U.S. and beyond through the presentation of artists whose works are formed or inspired by the arts and culture of Japan. Taking the mantle as head of Japan Society’s Performing Arts Program in 2004, Yoko Shioya has carried this mission through the 21st century, programming over 200 events of the finest Japanese theater, dance, and music from the very traditional to the most cutting edge. In addition to her exponential increase of Japan Society commissions and North American tours, Yoko has been responsible for the launch of the Annual Play Reading for English-translated contemporary Japanese plays, the expansion of the Contemporary Dance Festival to encompass the newest works from across East Asia, pioneering the inclusion of new operas in Japan Society’s programming, and setting the careers of many Japanese artists in motion on the international stage.

This year, we honor Ms. Shioya’s groundbreaking and award-winning curation over 20 years with a full year of programming showcasing a broad range of vision – including the 20th anniversary revival of Yoko’s first curated commission, genius puppeteer Basil Twist’s award-winning Dogugaeshi; the momentous arrival of National Theatre’s legendary bunraku artists for a rare North American five-city tour, including the first performance of traditional bunraku puppetry from Japan in New York City in 32 years; the long-awaited return of legendary Korean-Japanese avant-garde theater director Kim Sujin in Shuji Terayama’s Duke Bluebeard’s Castle; the 20th iteration of the Contemporary Dance Festival: Japan + East Asia; and several premieres and US debut performances, including Sachiyo Takahashi | Nekaa Lab’s Shinnai Meets Puppetry, a concert by traditional instrument supergroup The Shakuhachi 5, and a two-event feature for rising percussion wizard Shun Ishiwaka.

Your support will help us continue to inspire awe, push boundaries, educate and make creative visions come true. Support the future of Japan Society’s Performing Arts Program today to enrich your cultural life tomorrow.