Ricca ricca festa brings world performing arts to Okinawa

Reality meets fantasy in ‘Les Moutons,’ a Canadian wordless production depicting a surrealistic view of sheeps. (Photo Gary Mulcahey)

Reality meets fantasy in ‘Les Moutons,’ a Canadian wordless production depicting a surrealistic view of sheeps. (Photo Gary Mulcahey)

An international festival aimed specifically at young audiences, and everyone else who likes theater and performing arts, takes place at various venues in Naha from July 22 through 30.

‘Petites furies’ is a Belgian dance show about anger and friendship. (Photo Nicolas Bomal - Province de Liège)

‘Petites furies’ is a Belgian dance show about anger and friendship. (Photo Nicolas Bomal – Province de Liège)

The festival, called “ricca ricca festa” has been held every summer since 2005. It was originally known as “Kijimuna Festa” and was concentrated in Okinawa City until 2013. In 2014 the festival was moved to Naha, and its name was changed to ricca ricca festa, the “ricca ricca” in its name meaning “Let’s go” in Okinawan dialect.

The festival consists of 30 productions and performances. The performing groups hail from various parts of the world from Sweden to Australia to Canada. The productions are all unique, different in theme and style. Some are aimed at children as young as three. The performances are held both indoors and outdoors, some are comedy, while other are meant to induce the audience to think about issues.

The event venues are in Naha, Urasoe (Okinawa national Theater) and Ginoza (Garaman Hall).

A Belgian dance performance ‘Raw’ (© kurt van der elst)

A Belgian dance performance ‘Raw’ (© kurt van der elst)

Tickets for pay-performances cost from ¥1,100 to ¥3,000 for adults, and there are also free performances and discount ticket sets. For detail on programs, tickets and venues, visit the festival’s English language website.

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23:53 28 Mar , 2024