About the project
The Tohoku Project
Dramatic Reading of Sumidagawa, by Kanze Motomasa
Directed and Adapted by Bryan Doerries
Facilitated by Setsu Hanasaki
Translated by Nao Suzuki
Developed in collaboration with the Global Mental Health Program at Columbia University and Setagaya Public Theatre
The Tohoku Project: Sumidagawa presents powerful dramatic readings by professional actors of Sumidagawa, a Noh play from the early 15th Century that timelessly depicts the unique challenges faced by parents in the wake of unimaginable disaster. Each reading is followed by the responses of community panelists, culminating in a lively, facilitated audience discussion. This interactive event promotes healthy, constructive dialogue about the lasting impact of the Tohoku disaster upon individuals, families, and communities—fostering compassion, understanding, awareness, and positive action.
About the play
-
Sumidagawa by Kanze Motomasa
A Noh play from the early 15th Century in which a grief-stricken woman searches frantically for her son who has been taken by slave traders. As a ferryman transports her across the Sumida river, she notices a memorial service on the opposite bank, and discovers that it is for her son.
Explore Projects
-
Addiction & Substance AbuseAddiction Performance ProjectDesigned to raise awareness about opiate addiction and alcohol abuse, the project is intended to promote dialogue about helping those who are struggling with addiction.
-
Natural DisasterBook of JobThe Book of Job Project presents dramatic readings by acclaimed actors of The Book of Job as a catalyst for powerful, guided conversations about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic upon individuals, families, and communities. The Book of Job is an ancient Hebrew poem that timelessly explores how humans behave when faced with disaster, pestilence and injustice.
-
Racism & Social JusticeThe Drum Major InstinctCommissioned by BRIC, The Drum Major Instinct engages audiences in dialogue about racism, inequality, and social justice. The performance features a dramatization of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final sermon, embodied by prominent actors and supported by a large gospel choir, composed of singers, activists, police officers, and musicians from St. Louis, MO, and Brooklyn, NY.