RIEKO KOTOKU gift as a performing artist is her ability to transport her audience through time and space into the ethereal world of Japanese spiritual mysticism. From the moment she enters the stage our journey begins; first with the sheer beauty of the kimono as it flows and follows her ancient storytelling movements. And then slowly she invites her audience to journey into the world of imagination and wonder through rhythmic beats of the Taiko drums, the melodic sounds of the multi- stringed Koto instrument and the haunting notes of Fue, a Japanese flute. We are in the company of a master storyteller; through her music and dance we are reminded that we are ONE with nature and nature is ONE with us. RIEKO KOTOKU brings us face to face to our spiritual connection with all living things. Nature is us and we are Nature. To commune with nature is to see the artistry of RIEKO KOTOKU.

Tatsuno Kusaba & Judith Ryan

When I saw Rieko's performance for the first time, I felt a very strong power in her movements and expressions. I thought I definitely want to perform with this person. I've performed with her several times now, and her movement to express the suppleness and softness of women including emotions is very beautiful. Besides that, she can express various aspects in a completely different and very comical style. She is not only a dancer but also a dynamic Japanese drum player, and the audience is fascinated by the way she plays powerfully and with delicate femininity. I'm attracted to her spirituality to pursue her pure sensibility and art. I think that she is an artist who will continue to be successful in many fields.

Yukiko Matsuyama (Japanese Koto Artist)