But by 1934, when Babe Ruth (Beibu Rusu) barnstormed in Japan, Eiji Sawamura, a high schooler struck out the Babe, Lou Gehrig and other all-stars.

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In the Kabuki tradition of men playing female characters, Mr. Sawamura's gestural dances, full of delicate facial expressions and artful costume manipulation, marvelously capture the wiles of the serpent-demon maiden hoping to enter the temple that figures in the classic play.

WSJ: Giselle at the D?j?ji Temple | Yasuko Yokoshi | Bell | New York Live Arts | By Robert Greskovic

The often compelling and impressive presence of Ms. Seyama and Mr. Sawamura stand out as the show's highlight, sometimes in striking contrast to the non-Japanese performers who, when they are asked to perform aspects of traditional Japanese dance, do so without evident conviction.

WSJ: Giselle at the D?j?ji Temple | Yasuko Yokoshi | Bell | New York Live Arts | By Robert Greskovic

What became of Sawamura?

FORBES: Baseball and Cricket 'Right Off the Bat'