DRUM TAO

John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center April 29, 2025

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 7:30 pm

A dynamic performance featuring a group of drummers playing large traditional drums on stage. The drummers are dressed in red and black attire, with some wearing headbands. They are captured mid-action, with drumsticks raised high and bodies in motion, creating an energetic atmosphere. The stage is illuminated by dramatic lighting, with beams of light cutting through the dark background.

Image courtesy of DRUM TAO.

Blending the thunderous rhythms of traditional Japanese taiko drums with contemporary music, choreography, and striking visual design, DRUM TAO has captivated audiences worldwide. Founded in 1993 in Oita, Japan, this internationally renowned ensemble creates a one-of-a-kind performance filled with athleticism, artistry, and heart-pounding energy. With handcrafted instruments, original compositions, and stunning costumes, DRUM TAO offers a modern and unforgettable take on Japanese performing arts.

ABOUT DRUM TAO

More than 9 million spectators have been touched across the world. DRUM TAO鈥檚 stage is created through phenomenal performances and expressions consisting of incomparable 鈥淲adaiko-drums鈥� and the beautiful melody of Japanese flutes and harps. It is the 鈥淛apanese Entertainment鈥� for a new generation that completely surpasses expectations.Their new long-run production 鈥淢ANGEKYO鈥� started in Tokyo in 2017. This night entertainment aimed at international tourists became widely popular and it has been announced that this will be performed in their exclusive theater from April, 2019, over the year of the Tokyo Olympics. In 2018, they performed in the opening ceremony of 鈥淛aponism 2018鈥� in Paris, France. They also costarred with the Bolshoi Ballet as the opening act of 鈥淛apan Year in Russia鈥� held at The Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow, Russia, in front of the head of each country.

They were awarded 鈥淥utstanding Cultural Contribution鈥� from Oita prefecture 鈥�, Culture Creators Award鈥� from Taketa city in Oita prefecture, and 鈥淭he 6th Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner Award鈥� and 鈥淢inister for Internal Affairs and Communications Award鈥� from the Japanese government.

Currently, they perform 700 shows yearly as three teams; Team A, Team K, and Team S.

We look forward to seeing you at DRUM TAO on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 7:30 pm. Doors will open to the performance 30 min before the show is set to start. This show is 2 hours long with a 15-minute intermission. Please note, the 蘑菇短视频Fine Art Museum and BAC Concessions will be open one hour before this event from 6:30-7:30PM. The 蘑菇短视频Fine Art Museum is open for one hour before any ticketed event at Bardo Arts Center.

Discover more about the by visiting their website.

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