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Meen TanakaDancer and choreographer
Date of Birth: .
Country:  Japan |
Content:
- Life in the Mountains and Dance in the Soul
- Goya's Enigmatic Art
- The Timeless Essence of Humanity
- Naborshchikova: Is that a good thing or a bad thing?
- Youthful Spirit and the Freedom of Self-Expression
- Rural Rhythms and Personal Growth
- Naborshchikova: Can we enjoy your produce outside of Japan?
- Naborshchikova: Do your students assist in the farming?
- The Literary Inspiration of Russian Culture
- Naborshchikova: Were you disappointed?
- The Charm of the Russian Countryside
- Naborshchikova: Can't you find similar happiness in Japan?
- A Journey to Siberia and Beyond
- Naborshchikova: And on horseback, just like him?
Life in the Mountains and Dance in the Soul
Min Tanaka, a 62-year-old dancer and choreographer, resides in the mountain village of Hakushi. From his home, he enjoys breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Tanaka-san finds solace in rural life, while dance remains a cherished passion in his spare time.
Now, with the harvest complete, the renowned Japanese artist has traveled to Moscow. For his Russian students at the "School of Dramatic Art" theater, he has choreographed "Goya: Genesis of Laughter." Correspondent Svetlana Naborshchikova of "Izvestiya" had the opportunity to meet with the guest before the premiere.
Goya's Enigmatic Art
Naborshchikova: Mr. Tanaka, what draws you to Goya's art?Tanaka: Goya was the first artist in world history to delve into the secret side of human psychology. On the surface, someone may appear respectable, but deep down, they harbor a multitude of flaws. Besides, Goya's works provide excellent material for artistic exploration. I show his etchings to my dancers, and each chooses a piece that personally resonates with them.
The Timeless Essence of Humanity
Naborshchikova: And what impression do his works make on you?Tanaka: Studying Goya's work, I've come to a profound realization: humanity remains unchanged. There is no progress in our fundamental nature.
Naborshchikova: Is that a good thing or a bad thing?
Tanaka: It's a question of defining what progress means for humanity. We talk about "progress," but in reality, how much can a person change?
Youthful Spirit and the Freedom of Self-Expression
Naborshchikova: Despite your age, you exude a youthful appearance. Is there a secret to your longevity?
Tanaka: I have only lived once, so I have no secrets. I refuse to let society dictate how I should live based on my age. A person who dances and cultivates the land defies any age-related constraints. They are free to pursue their passions until the end of their days.
Rural Rhythms and Personal Growth
Naborshchikova: When do you find the time to work on your farm, given your busy travel schedule?
Tanaka: I spend at least 100 days a year on my farm. Currently, we are focusing on a special variety of Japanese potatoes. We also grow rice, berries, and green tea.
Naborshchikova: Can we enjoy your produce outside of Japan?
Tanaka: Yes, our products are distributed through network suppliers in Japan. We also hold exhibitions and sales before our performances.
Naborshchikova: Do your students assist in the farming?
Tanaka: Absolutely. It's essential. A person may have excellent physical control, but that does not make them a good person. For dance, that's a problem. Farm work, however, helps shape one's character.
The Literary Inspiration of Russian Culture
Naborshchikova: You appear to have a philosophical mind. Are you a fan of Russian literature?
Tanaka: Yes, very much so. I've been drawn to it since my teenage years. It was through Russian literature that I first dreamed of visiting Russia. But when I finally came here, everything was so different from my expectations.
Naborshchikova: Were you disappointed?
Tanaka: Let's say it didn't live up to my fantasies. We often imagine things we don't know based on our preconceived ideas. Moscow is not all of Russia. That's perhaps the most important lesson I've learned here.
The Charm of the Russian Countryside
Naborshchikova: Have you ever visited the Russian countryside?Tanaka: Once. I forget the name of the village, but I remember it was springtime. We drove for about three hours from the city. I wanted to meet some elderly Russians and experience the Russian forest. I was fortunate enough to do both. I met wonderful old people and walked through a birch forest where the catkins were falling on my shoulders. It was magical.
Naborshchikova: Can't you find similar happiness in Japan?
Tanaka: Of course, you can go to the countryside and appreciate nature in Japan. But the scale is different. You can't walk through a forest for an entire day without encountering anyone.
A Journey to Siberia and Beyond
Naborshchikova: You should travel to Siberia, to Lake Baikal. It's even more vast and sparsely populated.
Tanaka: I have such a plan. I was inspired after reading about Chekhov's journey to Sakhalin and how he passed along the shores of Lake Baikal. I would like to retrace his path.
Naborshchikova: And on horseback, just like him?
Tanaka: No, no horses for me.Naborshchikova: As a modern Japanese man, do you prefer the fast-paced express train?
Tanaka: I don't consider myself a modern Japanese. Our era has imposed an insane tempo on our lives, but I don't want to succumb to it. I strive to live slowly and mindfully.
