The presidentially chartered Japanese Studies Center at Cal State L.A. is organizing “Japan Week 2015,” a series of events (Nov. 9 to 12) to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
“These events will provide opportunities to reflect on the center’s past accomplishments, and call attention to its mission in the coming decades,” said Sachiko Matsunaga, Ph.D., professor of Japanese and director of the Japanese Studies Center.
On Monday, Nov. 9, at the Music Hall, a pre-event reception will be held at 3:45 p.m. At 4:30 p.m., Consul General of Japan Harry Horinouchi will give opening remarks. Koto and shakuhachi performances by Saeko Kujiraoka and Shozan Schultz will follow from 4:45 to 5:45 p.m.
On Tuesday, Nov. 10, in KH-D 136, an ikebana demonstration/workshop will be given by Miyako Arao with Marilyn Drageset from 3 to 4:15 p.m. Iseya Daifuku will give a rakugo (humorous storytelling) performance in English and Japanese in the Music Hall from 6:10 to 7:50 p.m.
On Thursday, Nov. 12, at the Music Hall, a kabuki lecture, performance and workshop will be given by Gankyo Nakamura and Yasoyo Kineya.
The Japanese Studies Center serves the campus and the community as a source to aid faculty, students, and the general public in broadening and deepening their knowledge of Japan, its people, and culture. It promotes Japanese research and academic studies and supports educational and cultural programs, seminars, guest lectures, and conferences. Its office maintains a collection of basic bibliographies and essential reference materials.
For more information, contact Matsunaga at (323) 343-4230. For a campus map and parking information, visit www.calstatela.edu/univ/maps/index.php.