Event Article

A trip to ancient Japan is in store for the audience at the next FJC Theatre Arts production, "Year of the Deer." Performances will be March 22, 23, 29 and 30.

The Children's Theatre productions have taken the members of the younger set, and their parents, to Mexico with "The Aztec Twins and the Sacred Bull," to Southwestern United States with "Spotted Pony, Indian Brave" and to fantasy land inside the "Enchanted Tower." Now they will visit the village of Usaki in ancient Japan.

The "Year of the Deer" is based on the legend of Amaterasu Omikami, the Japanese goddess of the sun. Traditions of ancient Japan, some of which are still a part of the culture of modern Japan, play an important role in the plot of this drama.

Sakura, a beautiful young girl who is to become a sacred dancer at the Imperial Palace, and Jimmu, the peasantboy, are the characters around whom the story revolves. They are faced with many obstacles which stand in the way of their fullfilling their dream of a happy life together. Hamiko, Jimmu's mother, and Yoshi, Sakura's father, are important in the lives of their children.

Smiles and laughter are created by Kyogen, the "imp" of Usaki, and Captain Kebiishi, the imperial tax collector. Judy Miyake, FJC colorful "Dragon Dance," "Butterfly Dance" and "Deer Dance."

According to Richard Thompson, FJC instructor and production director, the sets designed by Todd Glen, special lighting by Don Cohen, costumes designed by Wendy McCue and construction under the direction of George Stoughton, drama instructor, will present a spectacle seldom seen on any stage.

Reserved tickets are available in the Theatre Arts Dept. office, room 1316, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. FJC students will receive one free ticket with their ASB card. General admission is 75 cents.