Performing Arts in Asia

The nature of performing arts is based on transience and temporality. The ACC Archive and Research‘s collection of materials regarding the performing arts in Asian countries that have gone through rapid change, is therefore all the more important.

Among the vast area of performing arts, the “Performing Arts in Asia” first presents the materials about the little theater movements in East Asia. Little theaters established by individuals allowed the performing arts in Asian countries to flourish even during the period lacking in institutional supports. This project highlights the little theater movements that played a crucial role in supporting experimental performing arts in the rapid social change during from the 1960s to the 1980s. First, materials about Korea’s little theaters and their various programs that have played an important role in the Korean performing arts are displayed. Also, you will find information on the little theaters and figures who led the ‘Angura (underground) movement’ in Japan of the same period. This project will continue to draw topography of performing arts in Asia in order to establish itself as a platform representing the history of Asian performing arts.