Performing Arts

The Performing Arts Program introduces performers from Japan’s contemporary and traditional music, dance and theater scenes, and commissions non-Japanese performing artists to create works on themes relating to Japan. Many distinguished artists have performed in the Society’s 260-seat theater and on Society-produced North American tours. Since 1953, Japan Society’s Performing Arts Program has inspired audiences in New York and beyond with over 1,000 productions ranging from traditional Japanese arts to contemporary theater, dance, music and more.

Performing Arts 2024-2025 Season

As evolving technology takes over our lives, the theater has also become heavily dependent on digital gizmos: from computer-programmed LED lighting to Bluetooth-connected live video projections and voice enhancing lavalier mics. But we should never forget the power of analog craft and sheer human artistry. This is what puppet theater provides. In Fall 2024, we proudly place Japan’s one-of-a-kind puppetry culture at the forefront of innovation, influence and emotional effect—both within the endlessly inventive world of puppetry and within the entire universe of theater-making.

The second half of this season bursts with leading-edge, contrasting works by Japanese artists across many genres. Our dance program showcases the voices of East Asia; the theater program honors Japan’s incomparable avant-garde scene in the ’70s; the Play Reading furthers its focus on current women artists; the shakuhachi concert links the Edo period’s cool culture to today; and we culminate with two flashy—and wildly different—jazz concerts. Join us—enjoy this fascinating assortment!