Choreographer Benjamin Akio Kimitch conjures a fantasy Japanese American court dance where history presses against memory, and memory against imagination. Drawing from family oral history and years of research in the United States and Japan, ballet stages give way to temple grounds, barren foothills, army barracks, and the stench of empty horse stables. Benjamin’s “Allegra” turns to Bugaku, an ancient dance form whose roots stretch across Persia, India, China, Korea, and Japan. In postwar U.S.-Japan relations, performances of Bugaku inspired multiple collaborations with New York City Ballet, including George Balanchine’s own “Bugaku” ballet. These histories converge through a Japanese American lens anchored by the aftermath of the camps in World War II. Benjamin and his ensemble, Jessica Cook, Lai Yi Ohlsen, Glenn Potter-Takata, and Nami Yamamoto, bring these collective memories to life.

Performances will be accompanied by additional programming across New York City. Schedule to be announced.

Director and Choreographer: Benjamin Akio Kimitch
Performers: Jessica Cook, Lai Yi Ohlsen, Glenn Potter-Takata, Nami Yamamoto
Costume Designer: Carlos Soto
Scenic Designer: Jian Jung
Lighting Designer: Serena Wong
Dramaturg: Jeffrey Gan
Cultural Advisor and Mentor: Yasuko Yokoshi
Gagaku Advisor: Fumiya Otonashi
Wardrobe Supervisor: Victoria Bek
Associate Scenic Designer: Josh Oberlander
Producer: ShowShow

World Premiere:

Fall 2026, New York City

Booking Info:

Please contact Jenni Bowman, Producer, for info on touring and engagement. jenni@showshow.co
This project has U.S. touring subsidies available through NEFA National Dance Project.