Title:
RHYTHMIC DIALOGUES ACROSS CULTURES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MA IN JAPANESE TRADITIONAL DANCE AND Contratiempo IN FLAMENCO

Authors:
Musashi Max Oe Weeks and Musashi Max Oe Weeks, Japan

Abstract:
This comprehensive study examines the intricate rhythmic sensibilities in Japanese traditional dance and Spanish Flamenco, with a particular focus on the concepts of ma (?) and contratiempo. Through an extensive qualitative analysis using advanced text mining techniques and sentiment analysis, this research aims to elucidate the common ground between these two distinct dance forms and, by extension, provide profound insights into the cultural similarities and differences between Japan and Spain. The findings suggest that while their expression of rhythm differs in form, both dance traditions share a sophisticated approach to the use of space and time in rhythmic expression. Japanese dance emphasises ma as purposeful pauses creating a ‘pregnant nothingness’, while Flamenco uses contratiempo to create unexpected accents and tension. Sentiment analysis reveals that both forms evoke predominantly positive emotions, with Japanese dance associated with serenity and harmony, and Flamenco with passion and intensity. This study contributes to the growing field of cross-cultural artistic analysis, offering new perspectives on the universality of rhythmic expression in dance and its cultural specificities. The research has implications for cultural diplomacy, arts education and the preservation of traditional art forms in a globalised context.