月を見る夜 Moongazing's Yumi Umiumare makes short work of the big questions...
1. How do you approach your art?
My artistic approach varies depending on the project, but fundamentally, I view art as an essential component of my life. I consider it nourishment, life force, and a form of spiritual practice. Therefore, I approach art as a sacred tool that allows me to open my soul through creativity and play.
2. How do you know when something is “finished”?
In the light, it is the quiet, satisfied void,
A conforming echo, a voice of completion deep inside.
In the shadow, it is the dull weight that settles low,
When feeling turns to frost, and the spirit's strength runs slow.
3. What’s your favourite way to work?
>Easy simple flowing process without effort
>Cohesive process with individual strength from each artist
>Respecting the space where invisible force is working on behalf of us
Yumi is a Japanese-born performance maker and the creator of Butoh Cabaret works. For over 30 years, she has developed a distinctive style that evokes visceral emotion through narrative, abstraction, ritual, and a unique sense of humor. Her works have toured globally and explore cultural identity while blending traditional and contemporary aspects of life. Her social practice includes working with marginalized communities, First Nations people, refugees, and inclusive companies. Yumi has been the artistic director of ButohOUT! in Melbourne since 2017 and is a key figure in the global Butoh scene. She has received several awards, including the 2024 Melbourne Fringe Living Legend Award.
Image by Vikk Shayen
LA MAMA PRESENTS Antipodes Theatre Company's 月を見る夜 Moongazing
4-22 February 2026
Find out more and book 月を見る夜 Moongazing