Local performing arts and recovery from the Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami: A descriptive qualitative study

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand the role of local performing arts in disaster recovery after the 2011 Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami. A qualitative descriptive methodology was used to obtain insights into local people's experiences and perspectives. Three main methods were used to collect data: semi-structured group interviews with five traditional preservation societies including 13 participants, as well as interviews with two key informants, a questionnaire survey with 53 respondents, and field observation and visual data. The study setting was an area called Karakuwa, which is located in Miyagi Prefecture. Four themes with 11 associated sub-themes were generated: 1. Locality, 2. Connections with other areas, 3. Connections within the community, and 4. Psychosocial support. Findings indicated that local performing arts are embedded in people's lives and are based on knowledge and experiences that have been transmitted through generations. Although the people experienced the tsunami, they gradually began to perform again within the community as a means of regaining their identity and encouraging themselves and others. In addition, they began to perform to non-locals to show their appreciation for the assistance they had received and in attempts to increase the number of people involved in the activities. A key implication for policy is that, in disaster-recovery efforts, it is necessary to invest in local performing arts in order to help people restore their ways of life and promote ties among locals and connections with non-locals.