Yamato
The University of Central Arkansas’s Reynolds Performance Hall will welcome Yamato Drummers of Japan and the group’s new show “Passion” on Wednesday, March 18, at 7:30 p.m.
Yamato was founded in 1993 by Artistic Director Masa Ogawa and has successfully toured the globe visiting 54 countries while performing to over 8 million people in more than 3,500 shows.
Recognized as the trailblazers in the Taiko world, the troupe of dozens of players starts its performance by hitting a Japanese Taiko drum made from a large, 400-year-old tree. They move their whole bodies to strike the drum, creating a powerful surge of energy. The lively performances require not only skill in music but also physical strength and endurance.
The Taiko drums used in the performance can weigh up to half-ton, so the performers must have the strength of a well-trained body. Troupe members not only have to learn the traditional Japanese techniques of drumming, but they also have to engage in intensive endurance training to be physically prepared for the demands of the show.
In this brand-new show, “Passion,” the drummers will provide a show that is full of explosive energy, drum playing, music, choreographed dance and movements, and colorful costumes.
Tickets are $30-$50 for adults and $10 for children and students. Tickets may be purchased online at uca.edu/Reynolds, at the Reynolds Box Office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., or by calling UCA Ticket Central at (501) 450-3265 or toll-free at (866) 810-0012.
