The Matsuyama Mirror
This Japanese folktale fantasy reimagined for the stage will be performed at SDSUs Experimental Theatre.
Coming of age set in Japan’s Edo Period
First produced at the Honolulu Theatre for Youth, “The Matsuyama Mirror” is set in Matsuyama, Japan in the Edo Period (1603-1868), before the discovery of mirrors. The Edo Period was a time of strict social order with elaborate customs and isolationist foreign policies, and yet art and culture flourished, and play was a large part of children’s lives. The original folktale diverges somewhat from stories of mirrors in other cultures. Instead of the often seen ominous moral ending, this version of the classic Japanese story has a special coming-of-age twist that will resonate with audience members of all ages.“I fell in love with this script because it gives us such a beautiful connection to the process of loss and coming of age,” said director Peter Cirino. “The depth of passion that our students put into this production is moving and how freely they all gave of their time and creativity was astonishing.”
Theatre program with impact
“This play is a beautiful tale about change and growing up,” said Stephanie Kwik, who plays the part of Aiko. “I cannot wait to share this story with the rest of the world, and I am excited for the audience to take this journey with Aiko.”Paul Scott plays the part of Kokeshi 1 in the young girl’s “chorus” of kokeshi dolls, handmade, wooden dolls originally from northern Japan.
“I've been involved with various theatre programs over the last four years, and I have to say the program at SDSU has had quite an impact. This is my second time working with Peter (Cirino) and the experience has not lessened in any way. He nurtures and guides our creative sensibilities while finding a way to keep the story strong and sensible.”
