GLOBAL CULTURES: THE SAMURAI BOND – YOSHITSUNE & BENKEI CONCERT
Join us at Jesus College, Cambridge, for ‘The Boy on Gojō Bridge’ – a performance by Yui Shikakura and Laura Sampson. Tickets are available below.
About the event
Japanese art has long been captivated by Minamoto no Yoshitsune, the brilliant samurai of the Genji clan whose military genius led to decisive victories over the Heike in the 11th century Genpei wars. His life was one of triumph and tragedy, history and legend – with stories of his exploits shot through with supernatural encounters, magical journeys … and profound friendships.
‘The Boy on Gojō Bridge’ retells the story that made many of those famous victories possible: how Japan’s most famous ‘double act’ – Yoshitsune and the warrior monk Benkei – came into being. From their first meeting as foes in the ancient capital Kyoto, to the blossoming of what would become an alliance of love, skill and brotherhood; a pairing which continues to inspire Japanese performing arts to this day. Fighting talk, brilliant swordplay, and supernatural encounters with long-nosed Tengu will be brought to life in a vivid mix of dramatic narration and elements of kabuki music, including Nagauta song and live shamisen.
About Dr Yui Shikakura
Dr Yui Shikakura is a shamisen artist, musicologist, and educator whose work bridges performance and scholarship. Trained at Tokyo University of the Arts (PhD, MA, BA in Traditional Japanese Music), she specialises in Nagauta and early years music education, combining rigorous academic research with an active practice in traditional performance.
Her work explores the narrative and expressive depth of shamisen music, bringing historical repertoire into dialogue with contemporary audiences through storytelling, lecture-performances, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Alongside international performances in Japan and the UK, she serves as Assistant Professor of Practice at Lingnan University and leads major cultural and STEAM initiatives that connect heritage, technology, and inclusive education.
Positioned between stage and seminar room, she approaches traditional Japanese music as both living art and evolving knowledge—preserving its lineage while reimagining its relevance for today.
About Laura Sampson
Laura Sampson is a British-Trinidadian storyteller, author and Japanese noh practitioner based in London. She tells stories of big emotions, surreal situations, and misunderstood old ladies – from across the world.
For children/families, Laura has worked with the V&A Museums, Discover Children’s Story Centre, Sagapo Teatro, Polka Theatre, Conductive Music CIC, Pākiki theatre, National Trust, and is an ISTA associate artist. She is also the author of Enchanted Tales (2023), Mythical Tales and Sleeping Beauty (2025), published by Templar Books.
For adult audiences, Laura has worked with leading UK organisations the Crick Crack Club and StoryJam, hosts regular open mic Tales at the Tavern, and is founder of story promoter The House of Rumour. Current and in-progress shows include Yamanba (UK story club tour), Chaucer’s Parliament of Birds, and a new retelling of Old English epic Beowulf.
Laura has practised noh (a 700-year-old Japanese art form) since 2011, and her storytelling often incorporates elements of the form. She has had work commissioned by Quiet Music Ensemble (Ireland); Noh Reimagined Festival (Mu:Arts), and British Library. She holds a Japanese Studies MA (SOAS), and is co-author of Moon Snow Blossom: Wintry Folktales from across Japan (Elliott & Thompson) out in Oct 2026.
FINDING THE VENUE
This event will take place in West Court, Jesus College. The pedestrian entrance can be accessed from Jesus Lane. On arrival, you will be directed to the screening hall. Please see the detailed map below for further information.
WITH THANKS TO
This event is part of Panorama’s partnership with Jesus College, Cambridge. Global Cultures at Jesus College is produced by Panorama and led by Director Matthew Webb. Its goal is to contribute to Cambridge city beyond our walls, offering unique cultural moments with world-class figures through its regular events, which are open to all. In the last year alone, we have featured master craftspeople, Noh theatre mask makers, National Geographic photographers, and film directors, producers and talent. Monthly events throughout the year will provide many opportunities for you to participate.
Support
If you have any questions about tickets, ticketing, or the event in general, please do write to us via [email protected], and we’ll be in touch.