Tanabata Festival

The Leeds University Union Japanese Society will host a cultural fair themed around the traditional Japanese Tanabata festival on the 11th and 12th February 2011. The story behind this festival is taught in Japanese primary schools and is a light hearted way to inspire and engage people of all ages. With the help of our native Japanese members, we will bring the story of the Tanabata festival to life through music, dance and art. Members of our society will put on a play to tell the story of the two lovers separated by a river of stars which has influenced countless poems, songs and dramas.
  
Interactive workshops, designed to introduce visitors to traditional Japanese arts, will include calligraphy (shodo), origami, Japanese language, martial arts, wish writing and much more. An exhibition of art work and photography will offer an insight into rarely seen Japanese festivals and a chopstick competition will give you a chance to show off your skills! The Friday afternoon will be lively and full of opportunities to try your hand at something new while the Saturday evening promises to be atmospheric and enchanting with performances of traditional music and dance.

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Website: tanabata2011.wordpress.com

Venue and time:
Friday 11th – Riley Smith Hall, Leeds University Union 2-5pm
Saturday 12th – The Lounge, Leeds University Union 5-10pm