備中神楽は、岡山県を中心に伝わる神楽で、日本の重要無形民俗文化財として海外でも知られています。後楽園で毎月第二日曜日に公演されます。
Bitchū Kagura is a form of kagura traditionally performed mainly in Okayama prefecture. It has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan and is known internationally. Performances are held on the second Sunday of every month at Okayama Korakuen Garden.
最初に荒神様を招く舞が行われます。荒神様は、恐ろしくも民を守ってくれる神様です。
The performance begins with a dance that invites Kōjin, the deity of the hearth and fire. Although awe-inspiring and fearsome in character, Kōjin is also believed to protect the people.
扇と剣を使った猿田彦の舞。天地を清め悪魔払いをする意味があるそうです。
Next is the dance of Sarutahiko 猿田彦, performed using fans and a sword. This dance is said to purify heaven and earth and to drive away evil spirits.
派手さはないと言われますが、その分、舞と歌の力強い美しさが際立ちます。古来神楽は娯楽性や芸術性よりも神様に捧げ五穀豊穣や民の安寧を祈るものでしたが、備中神楽は古来の神楽の形を残していると考えられます。
Bitchū Kagura is sometimes said to lack flamboyance, but for that very reason the powerful beauty of the dance and chanting stands out even more. In ancient times, kagura was not primarily meant for entertainment or artistic display, but was performed as an offering to the gods, praying for abundant harvests and the peace and well-being of the people. Bitchū Kagura is thought to preserve this ancient form of kagura.
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