Sexual Practices of the Japanese

(2006-2008)

A scintillating peek into the world of common stereotypes surrounding Japanese culture. This sometimes-irreverent trilogy of interweaving one-acts takes us from a crowded commuter train to one of Tokyo's infamous love hotels, and touches on office politics, work parties and Seattle Mariners star outfielder (and Japanese icon) Ichiro Suzuki. The inspiration for Sexual Practices of the Japanese lies in the place where the traditional and modern meet — in the blurry space between people’s perceptions and expectations.

Sexual Practices of the Japanese. Photo by Tim Matheson.

Written by Manami Hara, Hiro Kanagawa, James Long and Maiko Yamamoto, and performed by Hara, Kanagawa, Yamamoto and Raugi Yu, with direction by Yamamoto and Long, Sexual Practices of the Japanese featured a superb creative team, including music by Veda Hille, costume design by Barb Clayden, lighting design by Jonathan Ryder, technical direction by Colin Cooper and sound design by Lee Hutzulak. Sexual Practices of the Japanaese premiered in Vancouver at The Vancouver East Cultural Centre and toured to the National Arts Centre, Factory Theatre and On the Boards in Seattle.