Akram Khan Company

A uniquely Japanese avant-garde dance form created by Tatsumi Hijikata in 1959. Using white-painted bodies and slow, contorted movements, it expresses deep human psychology and social critique. Recognized as a representative post-war Japanese artistic movement, butoh has profoundly influenced the international contemporary dance scene.

An avant-garde dance art pioneered by Tatsumi Hijikata. Emphasizing improvisation and body expression beyond traditional dance. Called 'Ankoku Butoh,' it leads global contemporary dance movements. Internationally acclaimed as cutting-edge Japanese art.

Contemporary dance influenced by Butoh. Choreographers like Shirotuka Toru and Tanaka Min pursue new physical expression while developing Butoh aesthetics. Employing techniques that extract maximum expression from minimal body movement, it is highly valued in the global contemporary dance scene. It represents an important artistic lineage continuing Japan's avant-garde tradition.

A body of stage works directed by Suzuki Tadashi. Through creative interpretations of Shakespeare and classical texts, he creates integrated stage art combining physicality and visual beauty. His high evaluations and awards at international theater festivals establish him as a pioneering figure questioning contemporary theater's nature, elevating Japanese drama's international standing.

A butoh (Japanese avant-garde dance) company founded in 1975 by Ohno Yoshito, a disciple of Tatsumi Hijikata. They explore extreme expressions of body and space, earning international recognition at major theater festivals with productions like 'Phoenix.' Instrumental in establishing butoh as a recognized art form on the world stage, influencing contemporary dance globally.

A contemporary Butoh group inheriting Hijikata Tatsumi's Ankoku Butoh philosophy. The Byakko Company fuses avant-garde physical expression with philosophical inquiry, performing groundbreaking works domestically and internationally. Their exploration of Butoh's diverse possibilities has influenced Western contemporary dance scenes.

Avant-garde dance art form born in Japan during the 1960s. Created by Tatsumi Hijikata and the Ankoku Butoh movement, continued by artists like Kazuo Ohno. Performers move barefoot with chalk-covered bodies in slow, distorted movements expressing transcendent artistic vision. Butoh has become an influential force in contemporary international dance, performed globally.