A warm breeze from Okinawa opens the season with traditional dance from Japan's southern islands. A group of leading dancers and musicians, who are also alumni and faculty members of the prestigious Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts, perform refined court dances developed during the period when Okinawa was an independent kingdom (Ryukyu Kingdom, 15th-19th centuries), and playful folk dances (zo odori) that became popular after the end of the Ryukyu Kingdom. A stunning array of works depicting idyllic life on the islands, accompanied by seven musicians including instrumentalists and chanters, takes audiences on a trip through the rich history and culture of the archipelago.

A pre-performance lecture begins at 6:30 pm prior to each performance. Led by Dr. James Rhys Edwards, doctorate in Ethnomusicology from the University of California, Los Angeles. Open and free for ticket holders only.

Tickets: $40/$33 Japan Society members

The Friday, September 18 performance is followed by a MetLife Meet-the-Artists Reception.