Born in Tokyo, Japan in 1979 Chikako Kaido (JP/D) initially studied classical ballet before, influenced by the philosophy and performances of Butoh dancer, Kazuo Ohno, she decided to specialize in contemporary dance and choreography. Following a workshop with Henrietta Horn in 2002, she moved to Germany and studied for 4 years at the Folkwang Academy in Essen. She has since worked with Andrea Catania, Kuo-chu Wu, Libby Nye, Samir Akika and Susanne Linke. Her own creations include Showcase of the body, Division - music and body and The Religion.