Japan 2006/07/08/14

Gerhard Gruber in Japan

AUSTRIA - JAPAN SILENT FILM PROJECTS

were held in April 2007 and in March 2008 in response to the successful performances in April 2006. This time Gerhard Gruber worked together with three benshis - Midori Sawato, Mami Sakurai (2007) and Ichiro Kataoka.

Many thanks to Mr. Michael Haider, Mr. Arnold Obermayr, Mr. Jun Takahashi

Gerhard Gruber performing in Tokyo, JP - 2006

Gerhard Gruber made his first visit to Japan, and brought the legendary masterpiece films "Cafe Electric" and "Moon of Israel" vividly back to life by working together with Sawato Midori, the benshi who represents Japan! A dream collaboration work by two incredible artists! (Matsuda Films)

18.April, 19Uhr ForeignCorrespondents'Club

of Japan - "Cafe Electric

20.April, 19Uhr Azabu Kumin Centre - "Cafe Electric"

22.April, 13Uhr Setagaya Art Museum (sh.Foto) - "Die Sklavenkönigin/ Moon of Israel" & "Cafe Electric"

2014: performing 18 movies in 10 days at the Filmarchive of Japan and in Kawasaki - working both with Benshis and solo as well

Visitors Voices:

The audience was dumb struck by Gruber's dynamic and delicate performance of his magic piano which blended so perfectly with Sawato's masterful benshi-narration. Six film critics and editors have stayed after the presentation to chat with G.Gruber and Midori Sawato. They unanimously praised the duo's high quality performance and the sponsorship of the Austrian embassy for this unique cultural project.

We didn't know what was silent film nor benshi until yesterday.

The story was interesting but because of Mr.Gruber's piano and

Ms. Sawato's narration, we experienced feelings beyond conventional films. We were flabbergasted. Thank you indeed.

Wish such presentation would be shown more to the younger generations.

Special Film Premiere at FCCJ. The chemistry of Sawato-san's seasoned, impersonated narration and Mr. Gruber's improvised piano accompaniment was just superb!!

Jun Takahashi and Gerhard Gruber Midori Sawato and Gerhard Gruber