First, Kabuki, the performance was led in three chapters or sections which seemed totally unconnected.  Taking Toshi’s suggestion we shipped the first chapter which began at 4:40 and arrived at about 6 for the dance performance which was followed by a play after a 15 minute intermission.  We had picked up English language headsets which provide both a translation and a running commentary explaining the action we were watching.  With out this I would have been totally lost.  We really enjoyed the experience in this very old but recently renovated theater.  Looking at the stage felt like looking at a panoramic image as the stage is very wide relative to the height of the proscenium.  The only unpleasant experience was the total lack of legroom.  For those who know Kilbourne Hall,  there was LESS legroom than the worst seats there.  I was almost unable to stand ayer the performance and I really felt for our companion Howard who is a good 6 inches taller than me.

Today we welcomed three new members to the tour for the main trip Which began today.  We are now at our full complement of 14 for the next 2 weeks. Today was a city tour of Tokyo by bus.  Tomorrow we leave by bus for Hakone, near Mt Fuji where we will be staying in a traditional Japanese Inn.  There will be no Internet service,  also we are expected to dress in kimono which they will provide.  We are looking forward to this experience and will report fully from Kyoto when we reenter the connected universe on Friday.