Artsource
THEATRE MUSIC ®
The Music Center’s Study Guide to the Performing Arts
TRANSFORMATION
ENDURING VALUES
CLASSICAL
1. CREATING (Cr)
CONTEMPORARY
2. PERFORMING, PRESENTING, PRODUCING (Pr)
EXPERIMENTAL
3. RESPONDING (Re)
MULTI-MEDIA
4. CONNECTING (Cn)
FREEDOM & OPPRESSION
Title of Work: The Long Haired Girl
Creator: Eth-Noh-Tec: founded by Artistic Co-Directors Nancy Wang and Robert Kikuchi-Yngojo in 1982.
Background Information: Ms. Nancy Wang (a fifth-generation Chinese American) and Mr. Robert Kikuchi-Yngojo, (a third generation Japanese/Filipino American) are dedicated artists who use performance art and storytelling to share their version of the Asian American experience. The performers present a unique style of storytelling that links ancient Asian performing traditions with contemporary American “Performance Art.” Drawn to the universal values expressed in ancient legends, their presentations give ageold stories new life, encouraging audiences to reflect and draw parallels to modern times. Their mission is to build cultural bridges and embrace differences, to shift consciousness, to break up stereotypes and ultimately to help create more compassionate communities. In this way, the company meets the goals expressed in their name: the weaving (tec) together of distinctive cultural elements (eth) to create new possibilities (noh). Robert’s unique talent in blending the East with the West is apparent in this group’s exciting and innovative work. Nancy’s choreography and staging, as well as her background in modern and traditional dance, including Filipino and other Asian movement forms, synergizes with her partner’s contributions to create the unique style and mission of the group.
About the Artwork: Eth-Noh-Tec presents The Long Haired Girl, a legend from China. A synthesis of music, movement and words,
ARTISTIC PROCESSES
TRADITIONAL
THE POWER OF NATURE
THE HUMAN FAMILY
this performance fuses Eastern and Western artistic motifs. The sound of a Ditze (Chinese flute) adds excitement, color and punctuation as the duo tell of a young woman who overcomes her fear of death through her strong desire to help others. The performers use a “tandem” telling style, sharing narration and transitioning between different characters within the story. Embellished with rhythmic dialogue, tightly choreographed poses and comic facial gestures, their performance is inspired by traditional Asian theatre, yet also explores new ground within modern American performance art, which invites the audience to share in the personal stories of the performers.
Creative Process of the Artist or Culture: “Performance Art” is a highly personal theatrical presentation influenced by the life experiences of the artist, usually imbued with strong opinions, ideas and beliefs. Many performance artists use this form of expression to protest, shock or challenge established ideas. Others use it to examine and illuminate evolving cultural, political or racial situations. Stories presented by Eth-Noh-Tec come from 11th century China, but reflect modern issues important to the artists. These incude non-discrimination and the importance of working for the good their Photo: Allen Nomura communities. “No matter how far we move forward with technology, we will always have a desire for stories. They are the mirror - they are our ancient voices that continue to offer reflection, humor and mystery.”
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