Hakutsuru The Secret of the White Crane Master George Alexander, 9th
Degree Black Belt in Okinawan Shorin Ryu Karate, demonstrates the
Hakutsuru or white crane form. This is the kata that won him numerous
tournament victories. This particular kata is very rare and imitates
the delicate movements of the white crane. The kata, which has been
secretly guarded, was brought to Kumemura Village Okinawa by Chinese
immigrants known as Sanjuroku Seito or the thirty-six families.
Shrouded in mystery, this kata is perhaps the most beautiful in
karate’s repertoire of forms. The kata was brought to Kumemura by
Chinese visitors from Fukien Province, and perpetuated by Bushi
Mtsumura, Kenwa Mbuni, Shinko Matayoshi, Gokenki, and Hohan Soken. It
is quite graceful in its sweeping and intricate movements. Master
Alexander performs an artistic interpretation of the kata known as
Hakutsuru no Mai or the Hakutsuru dance. The form is done to the
haunting melody of the shakuhachi or Japanese bamboo flute. He expertly
explains and performs the kata. Master Alexander is known for his clear
and concise bunkai and self defense interpretations. 60 min.
