This is a new Obon odori (dance) arrangement to Okagesama, an original song reflecting on Japanese American histories of the Sacramento Delta. Specifically, it's a tribute and exploration into the life of my grandmother Jane Fusako Wada (originally Niizawa) who grew up to a farming family in the area before Incarceration.
The movements are:
1) Waves
2) Shield eyes, face inward
3) Two big circles, sidestep
4) Sprinkle seeds
5) Grow and row, with claps
Some technical details:
Song is 6/8 meter. For dancing, just step to the dominant beats every 3 beats. (ONE-two-three ONE-two-three)
This is the first draft of the song and dance, which will be performed as part of our Tsukimi Fall Festival on October 8th, 2022 in Davis, CA. The song was debuted at Rieko's "Mai Rie" showcase earlier this year.
Collaborators, friends, family, or anyone really are welcome to comment or make suggestions. Looking forward to dancing with you all soon.