Kumiodori is an Okinawan theatrical performance, much like the more famous Japanese noh and kabuki. The story is related using lyrics, music and dance, and was created by Chokun Tamagusuku (1684-1734). It was created in order to entertain visiting Chinese envoys during the time of the Ryukyu Kingdom. About 70 masterpieces remain, although its surivival is somewhat threatened as most of the performers are now in their 60s and 70s, with not too many young people showing an interest today. This is a rare CD of an exquisite tradition.
