On the streets of Tokyo, Japan, the thunderous sounds of taiko drums draw tourists towards Matsuri festivals. In traditional Japanese culture, these drums were used to drive away evil spirits and invite good fortune. Now, high-energy performance artists like Drum TAO command these sacred drums at venues in the United States.
This world-renowned Japanese performance group blends traditional Wadaiko drumming, contemporary music, martial arts, and visual design. As the group gears up for their upcoming performance at Newberry Opera House on February 10, group member Taro Harasaki invites us behind the curtain. Drum TAO uses a variety of Japanese instruments to immerse audiences in their culture. Harasaki says the show, “features traditional performances using Japanese traditional instruments such as taiko drums, shinobue flutes, shamisen, and koto, but also aims to entertain and engage audiences in a more contemporary and dynamic way.”
Since the group was formed in 1993, they have naturally evolved due to touring internationally. Experiencing different cultures, music, instruments, and performance styles from other countries has pushed them to deliver unique and exciting shows that other performers would find difficult to imitate. Productions like Cirque Du Soleil provide a great deal of inspiration to Drum TAO. Haraski states, “Since its formation, we have continuously improved the quality of our performances by watching and experiencing outstanding shows around the world, including productions such as Cirque du Soleil, with the goal of creating world-class entertainment.”
While the rhythmic sounds of taiko drums make listeners feel grounded and empowered, the force behind the act is physically demanding, and strenuous training must be endured to increase stamina. For Drum TAO, this training is a practice known as Uchikomi in which the group members play the taiko nonstop without taking a break. According to Harasaki after a session of Uchikomi, “our arms and hands are so exhausted that we can barely hold chopsticks.” Aside from Uchikomi, nutritious food is also important for preparing for performances and helps them maintain their physical condition. They cook their own lunches, preparing Japanese dishes with American ingredients. Harasaki notes, “This helps us relax both mentally and physically while keeping our energy levels up.”
Working as a group comes with challenges, but Drum TAO does not simply describe their dynamic as just that. With some members being part of Drum TAO for over 30 years, their relationship is more like family. All members reside in a compound called “TAO village”. Even though their family dynamic has taken root, the group’s relationship also has a bit of healthy rivalry. Harasaki says, “At the same time, we are also rivals to each other, and teammates working toward the same goal, which creates a very unique kind of relationship that you won’t find anywhere else.” Their slogan for 2026 is “One Team”.
Drum TAO has dreams of performing on Broadway soon; however, they have projects in development in their homeland to be extremely proud of. A new venue in Kyoto, Japan called Drum TAO Theater Kyoto will open in April, offering interactive and immersive programs. The theater’s beauty rivals an art gallery with its bar lounge and rooftop terrace where Kyoto’s cityscape appears to be within arm’s reach. The group invites you to Japan to experience it.
Before heading over to Japan, you can experience Drum TAO in Newberry, SC at Newberry Opera House. It has been 8 years since the group last performed at this historic venue, and they are enthusiastic about their return. Due to the adrenaline from the thrill of their performance, Taro Harasaki says, “After the show, you’ll be so excited that you probably won’t be able to sleep.”
Article by Teilor McManus
