The Japan Foundation, London Office
Russell Square House
10-12 Russell Square
London WC1B 5EH
Tel: 020-7436-6695
Fax: 020-7323-4888
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Movers and Shapers: Japan-UK Relations
Nagasaki and Madame Butterfly: Historical Background and Implications of the Famous Opera
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Was there ever any real connection between Thomas Glover, the Scottish Merchant in Nagasaki, and the opera Madame Butterfly? What are the implications of Thomas Glover’s relationship with Nagasaki and the historical background and implications of Madame Butterfly in the context of their importance as a window on Japan’s changing relationship with Europe?
The first in a series on Japan – UK relations, the Japan Foundation presents a seminar entitled “Nagasaki and Madame Butterfly: Historical Background and Implications of the Famous Opera”. Speaking at this seminar will be Professor Brian Burke-Gaffney, Dean of the Human Environment Faculty, Nagasaki Institute of Applied Sciences. His research interests include cross cultural studies and the history of international relations in Nagasaki and he is the author of several books, including Starcrossed: A Biography of Madame Butterfly.
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Date:
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11 June 2008 from 6.30pm
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Venue:
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The Japan Foundation London
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This event is free but booking is essential. To reserve a place, please contact event@jpf.org.uk with your name, details and those of any guests.
 This seminar is part of a series organised in cooperation with the Japan Local Government Centre.
Professor Burke Gaffney will also be speaking at a seminar to take place in Aberdeen on 10 June, organised by JLGC.
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Drama Reading: Uchiya Matsuri by Shigefumi Fukatsu
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Shigefumi Fukatsu: Photo by Eiji Shirasawa
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On a vacant plot in the corner of a high-rise apartment complex, in the Kansai region of western Japan, residents pass by exchanging pleasantries during the New Year holiday.
The mood is changed by the appearance of a character accused of several murders which took place in the neighbourhood the previous summer and the true relationships between the characters are gradually exposed, revealing many more scandals and surprises.
An absorbing story exhibiting the darkness and complexity of the human mind, which lie behind the façade of modern, everyday life.
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to experience, in English, Shigefumi Fukatsu’s award winning work in an intimate venue, with the attendance of the playwright.
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Date:
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16 June 2008 from 6.20pm
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Venue:
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The Japan Foundation, London
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This event is free but booking is essential. To reserve a place please contact event@jpf.org.uk.
This drama reading will also be performed at the Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh on Sat 14 June. For more information on the Edinburgh reading please click here.
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Transitions
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This exhibition highlights and explores the challenges faced by makers at a mid-point in their career. Transitions will profile the work of five makers from different craft disciplines, including Japanese contemporary jeweller Mizuko Yamada. The exhibition will showcase new work by the makers, in context with their existing catalogue, and explore the issues faced by these craftspeople in developing their work.
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Date:
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5 April 2008 - 14 June 2008
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Venue:
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Bilston Craft Gallery, Wolverhampton
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For more information, please click here.
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Yoko Nishi in Concert
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Yoko Nishi
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Acclaimed contemporary Koto player, Yoko Nishi, will be performing as part of this years Chelsea Festival. As well as traditional Koto pieces, she will perform adaptations of music by Mozart, Ravel and Piazolla. She will be joined by Japanese pianist, Motoki Hirai and there will also be a pre-concert talk, free to all concert ticket holders.
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Date:
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26 June 2008 from 7.30pm
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Venue:
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Christ Church, Flood Street, London
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For more information, please click here.
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Kiyoko Oi Carrying Furoshiki: Photo by Michele Walker
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The Art of Wrapping: furoshiki textiles from Japan, curated by Michele Walker, is an exhibition demonstrating the range of styles and uses of these decorative fabrics that are traditionally used for wrapping and carrying objects and gifts.
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Date:
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9 October 2007 - 17 August 2008
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Venue:
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Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, Brighton
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For more information, please click here.
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