Prior to the spring dance season in the entertainment areas of Kyoto, the costume fitting for the 58th "Kitano Odori," or Kitano Dance, was held on the morning of February 17 at Kamishichiken Kaburenjo Theater, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto. "Geiko" and "Maiko," or geisha and apprentice geisha, attended a photo session for the program brochure at the theater, which is undergoing renovation for the first time in about 60 years.

Kitano Odori, which has become the entertainment areas' first dance performance as of this year, will be held on March 25. A total of 28 Geiko and Maiko appeared on stage in their costumes. Ume-raku, who is making her debut, said, "I'm happy as I've dreamed of appearing on this stage." Ume-yae said, "I want to work hard in order not to cause trouble for my seniors."

This time, the opening performance is a new celebratory dance titled "Shin-kyoku Kitano Horaku," or a spiritual dance hoping for people's wealth and happiness in Kitano, which was made to celebrate the grand opening after the renovation of Kamishichiken Kaburenjo Theater. The next dance, "Zokkyoku Junidan Kaeshi," is a folk dance passed down in Kamishichiken for generations and the highlight in "Kanadehon Chusingura," a Japanese traditional dance performance. Following this, Maiko perform "Shikunshi," or four gentlemen which is referring to four flowers and is a famous theme in Oriental art. The finale is "Kamishichiken Yakyoku," or the serenade of Kamishichiken, in which all the dancers perform.

Performances will be held twice daily, starting at 1:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., until April 7. Tickets including tea service cost 4,500 yen. For more information, contact Kamishichiken Kaburenjo Theater at 075-461-0148 (Japanese language inquiries only).