How AI could help keep traditional Japanese dance alive

HISTORY: :: Chiba, Japan

Practice moves from Japan's classic Noh theater – under the guidance of AI.

:: October 16, 2024

This Fujitsu technology captures your movements via camera, analyzes them and compares them with the performance of a model.

There is even timely feedback.

:: On AI

Takashi Ishikawa, a high school teacher, visited the Fujitsu booth at a trade fair near Tokyo.

:: Takashi Ishikawa, teacher

“Because my actual movements were displayed as a frame (on the screen), it was easier for me to visually grasp factors like the positioning of my elbow and armpit than if I had told them in words. Plus, it was analyzed in a short time, which made me want to practice more.”

The Noh Theater dates back to the 14th century.

These are stylized movements carried out by actors in masks and elaborate costumes.

Hidenori Fujiwara, head of the human digital twin division at Fujitsu, said Japan's shrinking population has threatened traditional culture but technology can help.

:: Hidenori Fujiwara, Fujitsu

“Using the camera footage, our artificial intelligence (AI) analyzes the body frame so that we can capture the movements from different angles of the joints. From this analysis, we then create a human CG model that can serve as an example for learners. This is our solution.”