As an international festival based in Kyoto, this program focuses on the region upon which the festival stands and explores it through fieldwork. Artists take the lead in the program, researching the Kansai region’s culture in team with local residents, producers, and researchers.Thoughts and observations derived from this research are published on the Kansai Studies website and archived in a way that allows viewers to follow their development. This is intended to be an “online library” accessible to all, which may one day serve as a source of knowledge and inspiration, as well as a testing ground, for future creators and projects.

This program invites radical artists from Japan and overseas, staging works of performing arts that we think should be experienced right now. Closely observing the shifts and trends in the performing arts scene in Kyoto and the Kansai region, the program introduces experimental works that transcend the genre boundaries of dance, theater, music, and fine art. The program focuses on ambitious works that raise new questions about perceived boundaries in the performing arts, including those between auditorium and stage, between genders, between work and creative process, and between subject and object of performance.

Can artists foresee the future? The “SKF” program connects society with experimental performing arts through talks and workshops in an attempt to spark new ideas and dialogues, a fresh awareness of issues, and perspectives on the future. Think, discuss and debate together on various social problems and issues beyond the world of art. We hope the “Super Knowledge” acquired will equip you to flexibly confront the unpredictable future!