JET Programme Series: Host Town Summit 2021 - Adanna Simon

The sound of Kes and Pan Phoenix playing "Savannah Grass" was nostalgic. The melody of the pan invoked a feeling I hadn't felt in a while. The feeling of freedom to express oneself through dance. That was the gift Nakatosa gave to me and any Trini online supporters. Seeing our country celebrated filled me with such pride. The unity between Japan and Trinidad and Tobago seemed so natural as if they have always been kindred spirits.
 

Nakatosa, a beautiful town in Kochi prefecture overlooks the ocean and virtues a connection between our two countries by participating in The Host Town Summit 2021. The town performs 'The Matsuri' by Yosakoi and Steelpan. The performance featured Yosakoi dancers from Nakatosa along with a pre-recorded video of The University of Trinidad and Tobago, Pan Phoenix. Although I'm not based in Nakatosa, I was invited as a representative and participated in one of the dances.
 

Backstage, while we eagerly waited for our performance to begin, we enjoyed another pan performance by Nakatosa's "Oh No Me!!!" Steelpan band playing a tropical rendition of 'Rum and Coca Cola'. The dancers were eager to dance to our national instrument but even more excited to wine with me to Kes the Band.
 

I hope one day more people can enjoy Yosakoi and Steelpan in the future, as the two marry together beautifully. As I close off highlighting this memorable experience, I will like to express utmost gratitude to Ms. Yuri Kodera for inviting me to participate in this momentous event.


JET Series: Host Town Summit 2021 (Japanese Embassy Facebook)


JET Programme Series Archives