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Japanese drum group in free performances
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Posted on Mar 28 2006
Residents of Saipan will have a chance to experience a traditional Japanese drum (Wadaiko) performance when the Maidaiko Asuka-Gumi performs for free this weekend.
Also called the “Team Asuka,” the 13 professional drum performers will be coming to Saipan, with exciting performances scheduled on March 30, at 6:30pm at the Garapan Street Market, and on April 1, at 6:30 pm at the Paseo de Marianas near ABC Market.
Formed in 1990 by Daigoro Asuka, Maidaiko Asuka-Gumi is a Taiko drum troupe that has performed on stage both in Japan and overseas.
Asuka has been creating a whole new level of Wadaiko to entice the younger generations. Fusing the power of the Taiko drumbeat with the grace of Japanese dance, the players create stage pieces that encourage a fresh discovery of the Japanese aesthetic.
Besides solos on giant drums, powerful drum ensembles and rhythmical drum-kit solos, their performances incorporate music from Shakuhachi and Shinobue, which are traditional Japanese musical instrument, and synthesizer, and elements of Kabuki, Noh and Kyogen theater (Japanese classical performing arts).
“Each work constitutes a highly individual staged spectacle in which formal beauty and dashing display nevertheless leave room for ample expression of the Japanese soul,” according to a statement from the group. (PR)
