The thrilling rhythms of Japan come to downtown Asheville when Drum Tao 夢幻響 takes the stage, Tuesday & Wednesday, Feb. 13 & 14 at 7 p.m. in Diana Wortham Theatre at the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts.
Step into a world of electrifying beats and mesmerizing rhythms with Drum Tao, a sensational Japanese taiko drumming ensemble that has taken the global stage by storm. Founded in 1993 in Oita, Japan, by artistic director and renowned percussionist Ikuo Fujitaka, Drum Tao has since become an international sensation, captivating audiences with their unparalleled artistry and dynamic performances.
At the heart of Drum Tao’s spellbinding show lies the ancient art of Japanese drumming, a powerful and precise form of percussion dating back centuries to sacred rituals and festivals deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Drum Tao’s members, with their extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication, have mastered the art of taiko drumming, complemented by the emotive melodies of Japanese shinbone (flute), koto (harp) and samisen (guitar).
In every performance, Drum Tao displays an unrivaled level of synchronization and coordination, creating a breathtaking spectacle of sound and movement. The performers’ passion, discipline, and boundless energy are evident in their pulsating rhythms, intricate choreography and visually stunning displays. Every beat resonates with an electrifying intensity, captivating audiences with its sheer power and artistry.
Beyond their mastery of drumming, Drum Tao’s performances are a celebration of Japanese culture and storytelling, with each show taking the audience on a captivating journey through traditional tales, mythical legends and contemporary narratives — skillfully woven together through music and movement.
Drum Tao’s dedication to its craft and commitment to cultural preservation have made these artists ambassadors of Japanese art and music, spreading the beauty and power of taiko drumming to audiences across the globe. Currently, the group performs more than 700 shows per year as three separate teams of equally talented percussionists.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary this season, Drum Tao proves that the universal language of rhythm transcends borders, uniting people in a shared experience of joy, excitement and inspiration.
Student Series performance, February 14 at 10 a.m.: This performance is currently full. The Student Series is open to school groups, homeschoolers, community groups and families. More information on the Student Series page.
The Drum Tao performances on Feb. 13 & 14 at the Wortham Center are made possible by performance sponsors Craig Allen & Julie Cowden, John & Marsha Ellis, Dr. Alan & Suzanne Escovitz, Jan & John Getz, Richard & Francee Healy, George Hellyer & George Wagner, Henry LaBrun, Peter Laine & Constance Ensner, Jerry McAninch, Ronna & Rob Resnick, Dianne & David Worley, Chestnut, Corner Kitchen, and Preserve Wealth Management; with additional support provided by media sponsors iHeartMedia and WNC magazine.
The Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave. in downtown Asheville, is a three-venue performing arts complex encompassing the 500-seat Diana Wortham Theatre, the 100-seat Tina McGuire Theatre, and the Henry LaBrun Studio. The Wortham Center presents a season packed full of world-class, internationally renowned artists — presenting the best in music, dance, theatre, comedy and more. The 2023-2024 season is sponsored by Explore Asheville/Buncombe County TDA, Renaissance Asheville Hotel, Citizen Times/LocaliQ, North Carolina Arts Council, 67 Biltmore, Blue Moon Water, John & Marsha Ellis, Hedy Fischer & Randy Shull, Richard & Francee Healy, Henry LaBrun, Ronna & Rob Resnick Charitable Trust, and Dianne & David Worley. To obtain more information on the season or to purchase tickets, call the theatre’s box office at 828-257-4530 x1 or visit worthamarts.org.
