Community members will get to celebrate the new year and learn more about Japanese culture at a free event next month.
Japan Night in Steveston aims to showcase traditional and contemporary Japanese culture through a live music performance and a free screening of a Japanese film.
The evening will kick off with a live shamisen and taiko performance by renowned duo Norinori and Komori, followed by a screening of Ora, Ora Be Goin' Alone in Japanese with English subtitles.
The event is hosted by the Consulate General of Japan in Vancouver and the Japan Foundation, Toronto.
"Ora, Ora Be Goin' Alone is a great film to welcome the new year on a positive note, reflecting on our past and looking forward to what possibilities the new year will hold for us," said Ryoko Hasegawa, spokesperson of the Consulate General.
"Although the film deals with the theme of aging and loneliness, it is surprisingly lighthearted and humorous."
The movie, which is an adaptation of an award-winning novel by Chisako Wakatake, tells the story of Momoko, a 75-year-old widow who lives alone in suburban Tokyo.
With the help of three imaginary companions, Momoko reflects on her youth and first love and begins to view her life more positively and "(walks) the path of her life more freely, though alone," Hasegawa explained.
Japan Night will be held from 4:30 to 8 p.m. on Jan. 11 at the Steveston Buddhist Temple at 4360 Garry St. Seating is limited and is available first-come, first-served.
For more information, visit the Consulate General of Japan in Vancouver's website.
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