Kamishibai: Mukashi Mukashi, Once Upon a Time in Japan

Step into the enchanting world of Kamishibai at the Japan Matsuri! Join us on Saturday, 2nd September at 4:00 PM in the picturesque outdoor area under the shade of trees for an unforgettable experience. Pino Zema, the passionate creator of the Kamishibai Milano project, brings the captivating art of storytelling traditional Japanese fairy tales to life through this extraordinary visual theater.

Picture itinerant storytellers traveling on bicycles, carrying with them the mysterious wooden theater known as “butai.” Within this treasure chest, hand-drawn images on paper come alive before your very eyes, unveiling captivating stories in sequence. Prepare to be completely immersed in a spell that materializes right in front of you.

Pino Zema, a master of Kamishibai, invites you on a captivating journey into the folklore of the Land of the Rising Sun. With his expertise and passion, dragons, samurai, mystical creatures, and legendary heroes dance amidst the realms of imagination, transporting you to an enchanted world.

This magical performance is suitable for all ages, both young and old. Allow yourself to be captivated by the beauty of Japanese fairy tales, immersing yourself in a unique and engaging atmosphere. Feel the gentle breeze caress the blooming cherry trees, listen to the rustling of leaves, and savor the essence of Japanese culture.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience this extraordinary event at the Japan Matsuri! Pino Zema and his Kamishibai will provide you with moments of wonder and excitement, creating unforgettable memories in your heart.

Pino Zema

Pino Zema, the tireless creator and curator of the Kamishibai Milano project, has dedicated his life to spreading this extraordinary art form. Through performances, workshops, courses, and conferences, he has collaborated with artists and scholars to create unique initiatives, elevating Kamishibai to new levels of excellence. His enchanting performances have captivated schools, bookstores, and libraries, earning admiration even at prestigious Japanese cultural festivals such as Mi Japan and Japan SunDays.

His collaborations with the Consulate General of Japan in Milan and the extraordinary exhibition “Wandering Stories of Japan” bear witness to the high value and cultural impact of his work. Pino Zema has introduced Kamishibai to spaces dedicated to modern and contemporary art, including the Comic Museum and the renowned Contemporary Art Pavilion (PAC) in Milan. It is precisely his ability to bridge the ancient and the contemporary that makes his approach to Kamishibai so unique and fascinating.

It comes as no surprise that Pino Zema is an associate member of IKAJA, the International Kamishibai Association of Japan. His tireless dedication and extraordinary talent have made Kamishibai an art form that transcends national boundaries, touching the hearts of people around the world. His contagious passion and boundless commitment continue to inspire a new generation of Kamishibai enthusiasts.

N.B. In case of bad weather, the Kamishibai performance will be relocated to the first-floor hall of Espocentro.