CJS Faculty member and former CJS Director Lonny Carlile is in Hokkaido, Japan to chair the Hokkaido 2024: Diversity, Transformation, Renewal workshop. CJS graduate students Brandon Marc Higa, Richard Barnes, and James “J.D.” Parker were among those who have the opportunity to gain a nuanced understanding of Ainu Society and Culture through field trips to various sites during this multi-day workshop.

Dr. Julie Iezzi, a CJS Faculty member and Professor of Theatre, skillfully directed a remarkable cast and crew, including several CJS graduate students, in a stellar production of The Maiden Benten and the Bandits of the White Waves at UH Mānoa’s Kennedy Theatre in April 2024. Also known as Benten Kozo, this popular play, even featured in a Japan Times article, was performed in English in Mānoa, marking the 100-year anniversary of English-language kabuki productions in the U.S., a unique tradition that began at UH Mānoa in 1924! This production was brought to life through the hard work and support of many, including mentorship from Kabuki Masters Ichikawa Monnosuke VIII and Ichikawa Komazo XI. Dr. Iezzi and the troupe are now set to showcase their talents in Japan with two sold-out shows: June 1 at Gifu Bunka Plaza Seiryu-za in Gifu, and June 2 at Aioi-za in Mizunami, Japan. Read more about it in the UH Mānoa News story: UH Mānoa Kabuki: Japan bound!