Drum Tao "The Martial Art Of The Drum"

Editorial Review

With biceps to envy and precision to burn, this Japanese drumming ensemble beat their way around Australia.

Image: Drum Tao "The Martial Art Of The Drum"

Editorial Review

24 - 26 July, 2008
The State Theatre
49 Market St, Sydney

If the percussive frenzy of Keith Moon in full flight sends your BPMs a-racing then be sure to catch the drumming extravaganza of Japan's Drum Tao. The ancient art of wadaiko is their game, which they bring to the audience of today through a show created specifically for the world stage.

The hypnotic beat of the drum acts as the narrator of stories as special effects and lighting add a hint of Broadway to this traditional Japanese art. Tao consists of a troupe of drummers striking their instruments in a highly physical, choreographed performance, complete with high kicks and fist pumps.

Drummers of the wadaiko style are unlikely to be found landing Rolls Royces in ponds as their rock 'n' roll brothers may do, preferring to dedicate themselves to rigorous training in order to become a finely tuned and dynamic striker of the drum. Tao consists of 18 performers who have already taken in the sights of Germany, Spain, Switzerland and Denmark en route to Australia. They have also appeared at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and released a debut album in Japan.

Kat Harley