In 2014, John Lytton returned to Kansas after living in Tokyo, Japan for 36 years. He acquired extensive experience in the field of Kabuki music, and related genres of drama and stage music. His musical experience ranges from the three-stringed shamisen to the drums of the hayashi ensemble. He feels that this notable festival is a powerful addition to the greater Kansas City cultural landscape.
His performance included a discussion of his experiences in Japan, an explanation of the shamisen, and the performance of three songs on the shamisen. He has presented his shamisen knowledge and skills at all of our festivals since his return to the Kansas City area from Japan.