The Resurgence of Nagashi with Showa Tunes, Hypnosis, and Magic in Reiwa’s Alleyways

The income for street performers, or “nagashi,” is primarily based on tips. The philosophy of the association is to maintain a flat relationship between the performers, the venues, and the customers, so it’s rare for performers to be paid a performance fee by the establishments.

This setup can be quite challenging. For instance, some younger customers may not understand phrases like “Your contribution” (a request for a tip) or “Add color” (a request to add something extra), and instead might respond by enthusiastically clapping without realizing they are being asked for a tip.

“Whether it’s street performance or a ‘nagashi’ (street performer), the old-fashioned ways of speaking often don’t work anymore. So, if I notice that the audience doesn’t understand, I have to try saying things in a different way.

On the other hand, younger people today are not resistant to tipping. With the rise of tipping for streamers on video-sharing sites, where viewers give virtual items, it has become quite normal. It’s like, ‘Oh, I’m tipping to support this person, got it.’ I’ve noticed that many people nowadays are surprisingly open to this kind of thing.” (E)

Even though “Your contribution” may not get through, throwing coins is immediately understood. It feels like we’ve come full circle.

By the way, while street musicians and live performers are required to obtain police permission for street performances, and tipping could technically be considered illegal, “nagashi” performances are different. As long as the venue permits it, since it takes place on private property, there is no legal issue with performing or receiving tips.

The thrill of live emotion is the essence of street performance!

The All Japan Street Performance Association does not have an annual membership fee and is almost entirely volunteer-based. When inquiries come in from those who want to become street performers, they introduce them to the appropriate organizations, and during tax season, they hold tax seminars, among other activities. Their work spans many areas.

“Each organization has some return, so we are able to continue, but it’s not so much about making it a profession. The benefit comes from spreading this culture, helping each organization obtain better information, and expanding it. Honestly, the budget issue is the biggest headache right now.” (E)

While there are many struggles, it’s an undeniable fact that street performance is currently well-received. So, what is the reason for the revival of street performance, which was once on the brink of extinction?

“There are various reasons, but one of our hopeful observations is that with the advancement of digitalization, you can now watch any kind of entertainment through a screen. On the other hand, due to the pandemic, there have been situations where you can only watch things through a screen. In a time when this has become so deeply ingrained, being able to witness live entertainment right in front of you feels extremely stimulating for both young people and middle-aged individuals.” (E)

Having your personal request listened to and watching a performance just for you right in front of your eyes—street performance feels like the ultimate luxury.

In the second part, we will focus on “Harumi,” who retired from a long career in the financial industry and jumped into the world of street performance. Stay tuned for a real look at street performance in the Reiwa era.

■【”From here on, I’ll only do what I truly want to do” – Retired from a long career in a financial institution… Diving into the world of ‘street performance’】 is here.

▼ Paris Nakayama, Director of the All Japan Street Performance Association. The man who spreads happiness. He made his street performance debut in 2008 at Kameido Yokocho. With his background as a former hotel staff member, he responds to your whims with impeccable grooming and a natural sense of service. His name is inspired by “Paris.” Featuring 2000 songs from 1950 to 2024, including enka, chanson, and canzone. Reviving the street performance culture centered around Tokyo. He also takes care of accompaniment and harmonies.

■ Paris Nakayama’s website is here

▼ Kio Endo (Crown Rio), Director of the All Japan Street Performance Association. A performer with 22 years of experience, and one of the few street performers specializing in balloon art in Japan. He has been active for 8 years as a street performer in this field. While contributing to the development of the association from his position as a director, he goes out on the streets every night to reflect the opinions of businesses and customers in the industry through his ongoing street performance activities.

■ Kio Endo (Crown Rio) website is here

■ The website for the “All Japan Street Performance Association” is here