Performer: CHIEKO KOJIMA, KODO

Born in Iwafune, Tochigi-prefecture, Chieko joined Ondekoza, predecessor to Kodo, in 1976 and thus began her encounter with taiko and folk dancing. Since the formation of Kodo in 1981, Chieko has carved out a niche for herself as one of the few female regularly performing members of Kodo. She is noted for the original style of her dancing in Kodo's taiko-based performance. Since then, she has incorporated elements of Japanese folk dance, such as Tsugaru Te-odori, and Balinese dance into her routine. She now also performs as a member of the three female voice and dance ensemble, 'Hanayui'. Through 'Hanayui' and her solo performance series 'Yukiai,' Chieko enjoys ever expanding her repertoire and meeting new and stimulating people.