National Geographic Explores Japan

In connection with its exhibition From Geisha to Diva: The Kimonos of Ichimaru (which will run from Feb 23 - Apr 23), the National Geographic Society Museum will host a series of programs on Japan. These include a discussion of the role of geisha in Japanese culture by scholar Andrew Maske; a personal journey into the world of geisha by artist Shimizu; travel writer Karin Muller's story of a year searching for the soul of Japan; a screening of the classic Japanese film Gion Bayashi; and a sushi and sake tasting.

The dates of each program, which will be at the National Geographic Society's Grosvenor Auditorium at 1600 M St NW, are:

Geisha: Beyond the Painted Smile - Thursday, Feb 23

Geisha: An Artist's Journey - Friday, March 3

Gion Bayashi - Friday, Mar 31

Japanland: A Year in Search of Wa - Tuesday, April 4

Grand Sake and Sushi Tasting - Wednesday, April 5

Ticket prices for each program vary. For further information, see the National Geographic Society's website at: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/nglive/washingtondc/spring2006/japan/index.html