Drum Tao - Martial Art of the Wadaiko
I chanced upon the advertising poster a few weeks ago and was instantly tempted, mostly by the opportunity to experience some new type of music. I asked around but nobody else seemed interested in it so I went solo. I was blown away by the performance. It was, quite frankly, one of the best things I've seen. Instruments aside, there were lots of shouts, leaps and amazing choreography to boot...and a couple of impressive-looking bo twirling sessions too.
As the title says, wadaiko were the main instruments of the night. However, to my pleasant surprise they included flutes, gongs, gu-zheng like instruments, xylophone-like instruments and monotonous trumpets (which looked like toilet plungers from where I was sitting) to great effect.I particularly enjoyed a few of their bittersweet numbers. However, most of them were explosive, entrancing, addictive and energetic. It was so obvious that the performers were putting their all into their acts and they were enjoying it too. So much so that one could feel the energy influencing the audience.
The male performers demonstrated inhuman strength, dexterity and stamina with their drumming. On more than one occasion the drummers were beating so hard, so fast and for so long that I felt my arms ache. The choreography was exciting, sometimes mesmerizing and sometimes downright humourous. I'm not surprised that they've gotten amazing reviews (including 2 standing ovations) where they have performed. They definitely got a standing ovation from us tonight.
After tonight, I have a whole new appreciation for the drum. Kudos to you men and ladies for putting on such a great show.
Hontou ni arigatou gozaimasu.
If you get the chance to catch them, do so. You won't regret it!
