Onidaiko
The Sacred Dance of the Oni from Sado
From the island of Sado, a land steeped in ancient traditions and profound spiritual heritage, comes the Kasuga Onigumi. For the first time in Switzerland, this exceptional group presents Onidaiko, also known as Ondeko: the sacred ritual dance of the Oni.
This powerful and time-honoured art form has been passed down for over three centuries. The version performed by Kasuga Onigumi was choreographed in the early 1700s by the renowned Noh actor Ukyokiyofusa Homma, whose legacy gave rise to one of Sado Island’s most revered Onidaiko traditions. Onidaiko fuses the thunderous rhythms of Taiko drums with highly symbolic choreography and expressive masks. It is more than a performance, it is a ceremonial act that purifies, protects, and celebrates the harmony between humanity, nature, and the divine.
On Sado Island, the Oni is not viewed as a demon in the negative or evil sense. Instead, the Oni is revered as an incarnation of a god, a symbol of divine power and protection. It represents spiritual strength, purifies households, protects villages, and ensures a bountiful harvest.
Every movement, every sound, every mask carries deep meaning. Together, they tell the story of a people deeply rooted in their history and proud of a living tradition that endures with strength and grace.
Kasuga Onigumi is one of more than one hundred active Onidaiko groups on Sado Island today. Each group maintains its own distinct style and spiritual interpretation, contributing to the richness and diversity of this living cultural legacy.
Following the performance, visitors are invited to join a workshop on both Saturday and Sunday. This is a rare opportunity to learn the foundational movements of Onidaiko directly from the performers of Kasuga Onigumi. The workshop is open to all and offers a unique chance to engage personally with this extraordinary tradition.
This is not simply a performance. It is a cultural encounter, a rare glimpse into the spiritual heart of Japan.
Saturday, September 20
Stage performances:
– 1:30 PM (as part of the official opening ceremony)
– 6:00 PM
Workshop with free donation:
– 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Location: Outdoor Workshop Area
Sunday, September 21
Stage performance:
– 1:00 PM
Workshop with free donation:
– 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Outdoor Workshop Area