Making everyday life interesting
The Japanese name of this group translates as the “Okuyama Drifters Opera Company”, after the leader of the project Kyo Okuyama, and the group’s changing stage composition: their lineup varies depending on the live performance.
A power chorus building original compositions from gospel roots
A power chorus group consisting of 13 singers and a pianist/director.
In 2006, when gospel specialist Taro Kijima was asked to play in a choir at a gathering of African diplomats in Roppongi, Tokyo, he limited the choir to experienced singers because of the short amount of time needed to prepare for the performance.
The singers liked the sound they created and soon after reunited for a charity event for the Republic of Benin. Under Kijima’s direction, regular rehearsals began, and in 2007 the group held its first performance as the Dreamers Union Choir (DUC).
While carefully inheriting the musical and spiritual heritage of gospel music through interaction with international singers, the choir built a diverse style including many non-gospel songs. They have developed a large repertoire with a focus on original compositions, establishing their own style and also performing many a cappella arrangements.
Bridging cultures with flags and artful fun
Many festivals have flags. Not so many have flags that were drawn in pencil by audience members, taken to the other side of the world by artists, and then colored, painted and turned into silk by students and minority groups.
Our flags have already seen many hundreds of thousands of sets of eyes. As they meet yours, maybe you will think about different times and different places. Or maybe you will just enjoy the display.
Their efforts on social inclusion and community involvement gained Toozalii an audience at the UK’s 10 Downing Street. That, too was a different time and different place.
