御冠船Ukwanshin Kabudan
Preserving the Tradition of LooChoo
The Ukwanshin Kabudan Okinawa Performing Arts Troupe is dedicated to the preservation and passing down of the traditional aspects of music, dance, and culture of LooChoo (Ryukyu/Okinawa). Using the stage as a tool to give a glimpse of Okinawan culture and history through music and dance, education is also a large part of performances to promote goodwill and understanding.
Ukwanshin Kabudan is a not for profit, Ryukyu/Okinawa performing arts troupe based in Hawai`i. The purpose is to maintain the traditional music, dance and cultural art forms while fostering goodwill and undertstanding through sharing . We also participate in educational programs to promote cultural awareness.
The group is under the leadership of Norman Kaneshiro (musical director), and Eric Wada (artistic director). Both have studied in Okinawa and have received their teaching certifications in Okinawa. Norman currently teaches the Okinawa sanshin class at the University of Hawai`i Manoa, and Eric heads the Hawai`i chapter of the Tamagusuku Ryu Shosetsu Kai.
