Tatsumi Hijikata

Tatsumi Hijikata was a Japanese choreographer and dancer who pioneered the avant-garde dance form known as Butoh. Emerging in the 1950s, his work challenged traditional notions of beauty and movement, exploring themes of trauma, primal instincts, and transformation through slow, expressive, and often surreal performances. Hijikata’s innovative approach emphasized raw emotion and the subconscious, aiming to reveal deeper aspects of human experience. His influence extended globally, inspiring artists and dancers to experiment with form and expression beyond conventional boundaries.