Masako Ono is a renowned Japanese Odissi dancer who has left an indelible mark in the world of dance. Born in Japan, Masako began her journey in the world of dance at the tender age of 4 under the tutelage of Masako Yokoi, the sole Japanese modern dance graduate from the prestigious Martha Graham Dance School in the United States. Masako’s early training also included western classical ballet at the Matsuyama Ballet in Tokyo, as well as jazz dance and hip hop at the K-Broadway Dance Center.
In 1996, Masako made a decision that would shape her future when she joined Nrityagram, an enchanting dance village in India founded by the late Protima Gauri, an acclaimed Odissi dancer. Her talent did not go unnoticed, and she was awarded a scholarship to further her studies. Initially, she received guidance from Protima herself, and after her passing, continued her training under the esteemed Surupa Sen and Bijayini Satpathy. Masako also took the opportunity to expand her knowledge by attending classes in Yoga, Kalaripayattu, and Mayurbhanj Chhau dance, as well as participating in workshops with renowned artists.
After five years of rigorous training in Odissi and Yoga, Masako ventured out as a solo performer, leaving Nrityagram to pursue her own artistic path. Since then, she has been based in Bhubaneswar, India, as a professional Odissi dancer and yoga teacher. Collaborating with artists from India and abroad, Masako has carved out a niche for herself as a powerhouse performer and choreographer.
Throughout her career, Masako has graced stages all over the world, captivating audiences with her mastery of Odissi. She has performed and given lecture-demonstrations and workshops in countries such as India, Japan, the United States, Canada, Italy, Sweden, Australia, France, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. Her talent has gained recognition from the highest echelons of power, as she has had the honor of performing for two Prime Ministers of Japan, Junichiro Koizumi, and Shinzo Abe.
In addition to her phenomenal dance career, Masako has also trained other Odissi dancers and founded Masako Ono Performing Arts (MOPA) in both India and Japan. Her dedication to the arts goes beyond her own achievements, as in 2010, she launched the MUDRA Foundation. This foundation aims to support international artists working to promote local art and handicrafts, further highlighting her commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
Masako Ono’s choreography is a testament to her creativity and passion. Some of her notable works include Frozen Grace, Dance of the Crane, Divinity Within – Tantrik Prayer, Kundalini Stavah, and The Day Dream. Each piece exemplifies her ability to seamlessly blend the elements of tantra, yoga, and classical Indian dance, resulting in breathtaking performances that leave audiences in awe.
Masako Ono’s contributions to the world of dance have not gone unnoticed. In 2008, she joined an esteemed group of individuals, being selected as one of the world’s 100 most respected Japanese people in her field by Newsweek Japan, a testament to her skill, dedication, and impact on the art of Odissi.
Masako Ono’s journey as a dancer and her commitment to the preservation and promotion of Odissi have solidified her place as a significant figure in the world of dance. Her remarkable talent, passion, and determination continue to inspire and influence not only the dance community but also those who appreciate the beauty and power of the arts.
Awards:
– Selected as one of the world’s 100 most respected Japanese people in their respective fields by Newsweek Japan in 2008.