Though most of the events of the 4th annual Enjoy Japan Festival at Carnegie Hall will be music, dance and drum-oriented, the program will open with a traditional piece by the Oita Noh Theatre. Other events at the 2-day event, March 26-27, include Sword Dancing from Gindo Sezankai, folk songs from Mieken Minyo Minbu, the Michiko Koda Kimono Show and various experts at the koto instrument.

Enjoy Japan's three showings feature over 1,000 amateur and semi professional performers from Japan who stay within traditional forms while also incorporating western-style culture into their art.

According to the Oxford Companion To The Theatre, Noh Theatre was founded by Kan'ami and his son, Zeami, in the mid-1300s. The word "Noh" means accomplishment, and plays in that style strive for honor, courtliness and nobility. Most are based on court life, lyric poetry and war romances.

For tickets ($2-$5 per program) and information on the Enjoy Japan Festival at Carnegie Hall on 57th Street, call (212) 247-7800.

--By David Lefkowitz