Fine5 invites: NAMSTROPS (Japan) "THE TALE OF THE BAMBOO CUTTER"

“Fine5 Invites” is an event series introducing international dance art in Estonia.

On June 16–17 we are presenting the work of the Japanese contemporary dance theatre “NAMSTROPS.” The company is known for its distinctive visual and physical dance language, audience interaction, and innovative approach to children’s theatre through creative movement.

The name “NAMSTROPS” (“SPORTSMAN” spelled backwards) refers to the background of the company’s founders, who discovered a deep passion for dance while studying physical education at Miyazaki University and decided to establish a theatre company in order to realize their creative vision.

In Estonia, the company will present the dance anthology “THE TALE OF THE BAMBOO CUTTER,” inspired by one of the oldest works of Japanese science fiction literature and aimed at young audiences. Characterized by a unique creative movement language and costumes rooted in old traditions, the performance is also recommended for adult audiences.

“The Tale of Bamboo Cutter” is a dance performance based on a contemporary interpretation of the legendary story “The Bamboo Cutter” by Japanese writer Shinichi Hoshi. The performance intertwines different worlds and emotions through the symbolic motif of “bamboo.” The story reveals the destinies of noble men who fall under the spell of the strong-willed Princess Kaguya, only to be ultimately rejected. Their unrequited love repeats like a relay race, reflected in the image of the “Moon Mirror” — a poetic symbol of the full moon reminiscent of a clear autumn night sky. Considered one of the oldest forms of Japanese science fiction literature, the story is now reborn through the physical, visual, and emotional language of dance. Allow yourself to experience a dance performance that unites myth, poetry, and contemporary stage movement.

Supported by: Estonian Cultural Endowment, Kohtla-Järve City Council,

The project is carried out in cooperation with Kohtla-Järve Youth Culture Center, the Estonian Dance Agency, and Fine5 Dance Theatre.

June 16, 18:00 at Estonian Dance Agency, Tallinn

June 17, 18:00 at Kohtla -Järve Cultural Center

Before the performance at 15:30, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a children’s creative dance workshop introducing practices from Japanese dance culture. Registration to the workshop: [email protected] or phone +3725042276.