Join us for an unforgettable evening of Japanese storytelling and laughter as JASM presents internationally acclaimed rakugo performer Katsura Sunshine. The performance will be in English.
Watch one of his past performances here!
For many years, JASM has presented Harukaze ("Spring Breeze"), a performing arts program showcasing talented artists and cultural performers. This year, however, we are delighted to feature Katsura Sunshine in the fall, and in honor of the season, we are pleased to present this special event as Akikaze ("Autumn Breeze") on Thursday, September 10 at Sundin Music Hall. (Google Maps)
Whether you are new to Japanese culture or a longtime admirer of the performing arts, this event offers a unique opportunity to experience one of Japan’s most beloved traditional art forms through the engaging and accessible performance style of Katsura Sunshine.
Rakugo is a traditional Japanese storytelling art that has entertained audiences for over 400 years. Seated on a cushion and using only a fan and a hand towel as props, a single storyteller brings multiple characters to life through expressive narration, humor, and wit. Blending clever dialogue, memorable characters, and universal themes, rakugo offers a unique glimpse into Japanese culture while delivering laughter that transcends language and borders.
Thursday, September 10, 2026 Door opens at 6:30 p.m. Rakugo performance starts 7:00 p.m. Sundin Music Hall (Google Maps) 1531 Hewitt Ave, St Paul, MN 55104
Thursday, September 10, 2026
Door opens at 6:30 p.m.
Rakugo performance starts 7:00 p.m.
Sundin Music Hall (Google Maps)
1531 Hewitt Ave, St Paul, MN 55104
Admission
Pre-sale
$40 Non-member $35 Member
$40 Non-member
$35 Member
Door sale ticket
$45 For all
***The registrations are not refundable, but transferable. Please let JASM know the name and email address of the person you want to transfer your ticket(s) to.
jasm@mn-japan.org
Katsura Sunshine is an internationally acclaimed rakugo performer born in Toronto, Canada. In 2008, he became the fifteenth apprentice of legendary rakugo master Katsura Bunshi VI and completed his traditional apprenticeship in 2011, becoming one of the very few non-Japanese performers to professionally master this centuries-old art form.
Since 2019, Sunshine has maintained a long-running Off-Broadway residency at New World Stages in New York City while continuing to perform internationally. Through his engaging performances in English and Japanese, he has become one of the most recognizable ambassadors of rakugo outside Japan.
Sponsors
Noriko Ishida
David Mixon
P.O. Box 26639
Minneapolis, MN 55426
