and Los Angeles (where she has worked with East West Players and appeared in the stand-up special Comedy InvAsian).

Mitsuhiro Sensei often organized dance recitals.Ive been involved in events with Mitsuhiro Sensei at places like the Fukuoka Kenjinkai.

I learned so much from them — its impossible to name them all.and the energy Ive received from the local community has been incredibly meaningful.Q: Were there other opportunities to engage with traditional Japanese culture in your household?A: Yes.

That realization struck me deeply.To everyone who has supported me over the years.

Q: What does Japanese classical dance mean to you personally?A: I think the beauty of Japanese dance lies in the stories embedded within.

I enjoyed helping younger students with those tasks too.Kensho Goto of Higashi Honganji USA Headquarters.

A tribute video was shown and the guest of honor expressed words of appreciation.The program included performances by Bombu Taiko and TaikoProject; messages from the Ito family.

Rinban Kenjun Kawawata gave shokuzen no gassho; Shin Ito.Mayuki Nagamine gave shokugo no gassho; June Kuramoto of Hiroshima gave a koto performance.