Yumiko Ishii

🪔 About

Yumiko Ishii is a dedicated Kathak dancer whose journey in Indian classical dance began in her native Tokyo, Japan. Her initial interest in Kathak was sparked during her undergraduate studies, where she majored in Urdu Language. She commenced her formal Kathak training under the tutelage of Masako Sato in Tokyo. Her pursuit of the art form led her to India and the United Kingdom, where she received extensive training from several highly respected gurus. In Delhi, she studied with the late Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj and Saswati Sen at Kalashram, as well as with Malti Shyam. She also trained with Urja Thakore in London. During her time in London, Ishii further enriched her understanding of Kathak by participating in summer schools and workshops led by eminent dancers such as Kumudini Lakhia and Fasih-ur-Rahman. Academically, she holds a master's degree in South Asian Area Studies from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. As a committed student of the Kalashram school of dance, founded by Pt. Birju Maharaj, Yumiko Ishii gained significant performance experience, appearing at numerous festivals across northern India over a period of four years. She has also played a role in fostering cultural exchange through her art. In January 2016, in collaboration with the Japan Foundation, New Delhi, she performed alongside Japanese award-winning writer Yoko Tawada at an event titled "Kala Saanjh" (Evening of Arts) in Delhi. Furthermore, she provided support to the renowned Japanese traditional dance group, Goyokai, during their tour of Delhi, facilitating collaborative productions with local Kathak dancers in 2017 and 2018. More recently, in 2022, Yumiko Ishii showcased her artistry by performing a tarana, a composition by the late Pt. Birju Maharaj, at the New York Kathak Festival Pop-Up, dedicating her performance to her revered gurus. She is currently based and works in San Francisco, California.