Takasago

Takasago’s background is deeply rooted in Shimabara. She grew up as Kazue Kushida in the quarters, her parents both hailing from a line of traditional hairdressers, kamiyui, who catered exclusively to Geimaiko and Tayuu. Since she was so well connected, her mother found it a crucial part of her education to enroll her as a Kamuro while she learned the Nihonbuyo of the Tayuu from her onesan but Takasago did not debut from the Wachigaya but from a now defunct okiya named Kikuharuro.

She probably was the last Tayuu to debut from that okiya and her connections to the Sumiya was her saving grace. But the Sumiya was in a strange place itself as business was slowing down noticeably. To make up for lack of new patrons the Sumiya opted to recruit part time Tayuu who performed for big groups of tourists and first timers.

But for Takasago this did not change matters: She conversed with the elite, hosted ozashiki for the wealthy and important too. Her collection of cherished photos of the time with famous actors and musicians are a testament to her exclusive services. Even though the Sumiya was trying to heave the Tayuu traditions to the modern age, Takasago was still a true artist.

The myoseki Takasago is a nod to the auspicious Noh play about long lasting love and harmony between husband and wife. Even though the name means “high sand” and inspired the thought of breathtaking scenery by the sea where the spirits of the lovers sail over, it also alludes to the role of the Tayuu as a companion for the time being. A gorgeous name dripping with poetic meaning.

Source: Tokyo Blues on Blogspot / Tokyo Blues on Blogspot