Diane Kichijitsu

British rakugoka, born in Liverpool. Arrived in Osaka in 1990 and began performing rakugo in 1998. Performs in both Japanese and English, including classics, modern works, and her own pieces. Holds teaching licenses for ikebana and tea ceremony and graduated from kimono school. Received the Nakasone Yasuhiro Award in 2013 for her support of Japan’s traditional arts. Also performs as a balloon entertainer.