Exploring Kamishibai with Aya Nakamura

Kamishibai is a traditional Japanese paper form of visual theatre storytelling which was popularised during the 1930s. Often performed on street corners, these “paper plays” consisted of a narrator, paper puppets and a miniature theatre with various illustrations which, when combined, created vibrant entertainment with underlying morals for many audiences. Aya Nakamura is a London-based puppeteer with 20 years of performance experience in theatre. Aya is deeply interested in exploring the profound dialogue shared between a puppet and its puppeteer. 

Originally from Japan, Aya has been inspired by Japanese ghost stories and Kamishibai to produce award-winning shows such as Kwaidan, and “live manga” shows like Akutagawa. Exploring Kamishibai offers everyone the interactive opportunity to take part in making their own paper theatre, as well as puppets, with assistance from Aya and concludes with a chance to exhibit their creativity. Additionally, there will be a short, inspiring display by Aya at the beginning of the workshop. If interested, we ask you to bring hard copies of some of your favourite images, these can be captured moments or magazine cut-outs, whatever can inspire your story!

Find the full programme, including accessibility information, at www.waywordfestival.com