A Japanese musical group enjoyed a trip down Route 66 including an iconic by pose with the jack rabbit at Jack Rabbit Trading Post near Joseph City. Pictured are (left to right) Susie, Komako and Martha of Bentenya.
A Japanese musical group enjoyed a trip down Route 66 including an iconic by pose with the jack rabbit at Jack Rabbit Trading Post near Joseph City. Pictured are (left to right) Susie, Komako and Martha of Bentenya. Photo by Cindy Blansett Jaquez
Bentenya performs at the Historical Courthouse in Holbrook.
Kamron Nez performs a traditional Native American dance.
The Native Summer Dancers pose with Japanese musical group Bentenya (left to right) Martha, Kamron Nez, Kristin Nez, Leighla Tsosie, Arianna Brown, Riley Slivers, Komako, Kayden Brown, Kiera Brown, Nelson Nez, Susie, Bennie Yazzie and Calbert Dixon.
Bentenya poses with a few of the Native Summer Dancers. Pictured are (left to right) Martha, Nelson Nez, Susie, Bennie Yazzie and Komako.

On Tuesday, Oct 15, a unique musical collaboration occurred at Holbrook’s Historic Courthouse. For a special one-night-only event, Holbrook’s Native Summer Dance Group was joined by the Japanese musical group Bentenya as they traveled along Route 66. This event was a very special way to experience two beautiful cultures. Observers enjoyed the colorful traditional clothing of the two cultures as they performed together. Community members and tourists both, enjoyed listening to traditional Native American music and Japanese music, as well as watching the dancers express their culture through music.