Dance Notation by Carol Johnson

Capricornia Dance Exchange, 2006

Tanko Bushi

Dance Notation by Carol Johnson

Japanese Folk Dance – Coal Miner’s Dance

Formation: Circle of dancers

Starting Position: A circle of dancers all facing the centre

1. Dig With weight on L, point R foot to R corner as both hands go down R, palms up. Repeat to the left

2. Carry Step forward R, R hand up, L hand on R shoulder. Repeat to L

3. Lantern Step back L as R hand (palm out) goes to forehead, look back, L hand back. Repeat to R

4. Push Push forward R, forward R as hands push forward. Repeat

5. Turn Turn L, spread movement with R hand over L, palms down

6. Clap Clap 1-23-4

(Turn around every second time)

Lyrics provided by Carol Johnson

Tsu-ki-ga deta deta, Tsu-ki-ga deta

Yoi yoi

Mi-i- keta ando mo

U-e ni deta, A an ma-ri

Ento tsu ga takai no de

Sa so ya otsu ki saan

Kemu ta ka ro

Sano yoi yoi

The moon has risen, yoi yoi

Far above the coal mine of Miike

As the smoke stacks are so high

She may be smoky, sano yoi yoi

Over the mountains-one, two, three

There bloom double azaleas

Though they may be beautiful

They’re all in vain for Sama-chan won’t come

Sano yoi yoi

If there’s truth in your words

I’ll make a mind, and part with you

If you’ll make me a girl of eighteen

As I was then, I’ll part of you