MODULE 28: Japanese Parasol Dance (Japan)

I.                    Objectives:

At the end of the lesson, the students are expected to:

a.       discuss briefly the history of the Japanese Parasol Dance;

b.      identify the different counting and formation in Parasol Dance; and

c.       execute the steps of the Parasol Dance.

II.                  Overview:

Japanese Parasol Dance is very colorful and easy dance for the girls. It is customary with Japanese girls to use umbrella for rain and sunshine. This module will tackle on the historical development of the dance in its origin country, Japan. Later on, the execution of the dance figures in the dance will be introduced.

III.                Learning Content:

Parasol dance was created for wealthy men. Then, Japan was very sensual and often times Geisha would do this after coitace almost as a award for the male. Though later, it became a dance before sexual status happened so the man would see the female better before erotica every approached.

               

The Japanese parasol dance is an example of a simple Japanese dance uses an umbrella. The dance is suited for girls making use of shuffling steps that is basic typical Japanese. The parasol dance is from Kabuki. The song played during the dance is called Micado (a song in 4/4 time).

Their costumes are: Bright colored Kimono, Bright colored flowers in hair, a Japanese parasol and Japanese wooden shoes.

Counting used in the dance: one two, to a measure: one, two, three, four, for two measures basic steps used: shuffling steps.

Formation: in groups of four facing the audience. The open Parasol is held with two hands over the head, the hands holding the handle at chest level. They stand about four feet away from each other. One to any number of sets may take part in this dance.

Steps of the Parasol Dance:

1.       Music A

a.       Starting with the R foot, execute shuffling steps forward. Twirl parasol overhead.

b.      With shuffling steps turn around in place clockwise. Twirl the parasol over the R shoulder.

c.       Repeat (b) turning counter clockwise. Transfer parasol to the l shoulder.

d.      Turn right about and repeat (a) going to proper place. Twirl parasol overhead. Finish facing front.

e.      Repeat (b) and (c).

2.       Music B

a.       Step R sideward (ct. 1), step L close to R foot (ct. 2), bend knees slightly (ct. 3), straighten knees (ct. 4). Bend the head slightly to the right side, parasol resting on the R shoulder (do not turn).

b.      Repeat (a) to the left side, starting with the L foot. Transfer the parasol to the L shoulder (ct. 1-4).

c.       Repeat (a) and (b).

d.      With no. 1 leading, execute shuffling steps moving clockwise. Each group makes its own circle. Twirl parasol on the shoulder (8cts.).

e.      Turn right about and repeat (d) counter clockwise. Transfer parasol to the L shoulder.

3.       Music 3

a.       All bend forward and drop on knees. Place the parasol behind. Bend trunk slowly forward until the head touches the floor (obeisance) (8cts).

b.      Raise the trunk slowly and take parasol with both hands and place it in front (8cts).

c.       In kneeling position, sit on the heels (Japanese fashion). Raise the head and look around the parasol at the right side (4cts.) and to the left side (4cts.).

d.      Repeat (c).

4.       Music A

a.       Each girl rolls her own parasol around self clockwise (4cts.) and counter clockwise (4cts.).

b.      Roll it in front sideward right (2cts.) and sideward left (2cts.).

c.       Repeat (b).

d.      Repeat (a) and (b).

e.      All take parasol and stand up with the write foot (4cts.).

5.       Music B

a.       All face right, holding the parasol with two hands at high level (top toward the audience, handle toward the rear).

b.      Execute shuffling steps forward, twirling parasol clockwise (4cts.)

c.       Turn left about, repeat (a), parasol top toward audience, (4cts.)

d.      Turn right about. Repeat (a) and (b).

e.      Execute shuffling steps forward to form a square, each girl occupying a corner, facing a common center.

f.        Turn around in place clockwise (2M) and counter clockwise (2M) as in figure I (b) and (c) finish facing the center.

g.       Turn around in place as in figure I (b) twice (8cts.) finish facing proper places.

h.      Repeat (a) going to place.

i.         With no. 1 leading each set turn once, clockwise and then exit. Use shuffling steps throughout, twirling the parasol on the shoulder.

Note: If more music is needed, part C may be repeated as many times as necessary.