The Obie Award-winning mastermind behind Symphonie Fantastique divulges his latest work inspired by Japanese puppet theater, blending centuries of tradition with his own inimitable style. Innovative puppet artist Basil Twist became obsessed with the rarefied and dying tradition of Japanese dogugaeshi stage mechanism technique when he saw it in a black-and-white film years ago. With this commission from Japan Society, he is finally given the opportunity to delve into its rich intricacies. After immersing himself in Japanese Awaji Puppet Theater, the origin of what has come to be known as bunraku puppet form and the only modern practitioner of dogugaeshi, Twist unfolds abstract and modern imagery inspired by Japan. This intimate performance features original shamisen compositions created and performed by authorized master musician Yumiko Tanaka.