Okinawa, Music & Dance, Performance arts 

"An informative and enlightening work, 'Ryukyuan Dance' unveils the beauty of the Ryukyuan dance while also imparting some insights into the Okinawan history and culture which gave rise to this Ryukyuan art... this booklet has been prepared for those persons viewing Ryukyuan dance for the first time. And to help our readers better understand the art of the Ryukyuan dance, the booklet provides a commentary and a translation of the song text for each dance, includes photographs to illustrate the dances, and gives explanatory notes on accessory dancing instruments. But, ultimately, we will be satisfied that the booklet has served its purpose if it transmits to the general audience the allure of the Ryukyuan dance"--From Foreword.

Contents:
Foreword -- A history and culture of grace and gentility -- An introduction to Ryukyuan dance -- Classical dance -- Kajadifu -- Wakashu Kuti Bushi -- Chikuten Bushi -- Kashikaki -- Yanaji -- Amakawa -- Mutu Nuchibana -- Shudun -- Nufa Bushi -- Wubichi -- Nnimazin -- Unna Kuti Bushi -- Karaya Bushi -- Mutu Kadiku -- Yotsutake -- Shundo -- Menuhama -- Zei -- Nubui Kuduchi -- Kudai Kuduchi -- Eji -- Takadera Manzai -- Nnatukui Bushi -- Popular dance -- Hanafu -- Hamachiduri -- Munjuru -- Nuchibana -- Hatuma Bushi -- Tanchame -- Shunu Bujo -- Timatu -- Kanayo Amaka -- Kanzeku -- Nakazatu Bushi -- Kabira Bushi -- Shochikubai -- Kurushima Kuduchi -- Modern dance -- Folk performances -- Okinawan music -- Accoutrements -- Song texts -- Historical chronology of Ryukyuan dance.