The inaugural symposium of the IRCI: “Methods of addressing the restoration and succession of endangered intangible cultural heritage” (October 4, 2011)

The IRCI inaugural symposium:

“Methods of addressing the restoration and succession of endangered intangible cultural heritage”

  To celebrate the establishment of the IRCI, we held a symposium on the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage. The symposium was devoted to contemplating the roles of the public bodies—from the national government to local communities—at a time when changing circumstances are continually threatening the future of intangible cultural heritage, whether those circumstances entail changes to the social fabric or the onslaught of natural disasters, such as the devastating event that struck Japan on March 11. In conjunction with the inaugural ceremonies and to show our support for the disaster-stricken areas, we invited the performers of Hayachine Kagura, which was listed in the 2009 UNESCO “Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.” The performers were from Hanamaki City, Iwate Prefecture, a community which was being devastated by the recent disaster.

Sponsors: The Agency for Cultural Affairs, the IRCI, and the City of Sakai

Languages: English and Japanese (simultaneous interpretation)

Time: October 4 (Tue), 2011 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (doors open at 1:00 p.m.)

Venue: RIHGA Royal Hotel Sakai (4F Royal Hall)