Japanese Tea Ceremony with Kuniko Yamamoto*

Experience the serene beauty of a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony with Kuniko Yamamoto on October 25th at 7:00 PM at Kweken Co., downtown Orange City, IA. This special event will not only showcase the meticulous art of preparing and serving green tea but will also include captivating storytelling and traditional Japanese koto music. Each attendee will receive a cup of ceremonial green tea, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the ritual’s elegance, accompanied by the soothing sounds and tales that enrich the cultural experience. Limited seating; early ticket booking is recommended.

About The Artist

Kuniko Yamamoto, a native of Japan, earned her Bachelor of Psychology from Otani University in Kyoto in 1983. She began performing professionally in Osaka, where she studied traditional dance, music, and theater. In 1985, she gained national attention for her Japanese Storytelling performances at the Silk Road International Exposition and on Kansai National TV. The following year, she moved to the U.S. to study with mime Tony Montanaro and toured with Leland Faulkner Light Theater. For over 25 years, Kuniko has performed solo shows in theaters, schools, and festivals nationwide.

She was married to the late magician Jon LeClair, who introduced magic into her performances. Kuniko has performed at notable venues such as The Kennedy Center, Disney Epcot’s Japanese Pavilion, Seattle’s International Festival, and the National Storytelling Festival. In 2015, she founded Origami Air Art Studio in Sarasota, Florida, where she collaborates with local artists.

Support for this event is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council, which exists within the Iowa Economic Development Authority.