THERE’S a spectacular and exciting performance in store from the Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers when they make a welcome return to Hartlepool’s Town Hall Theatre on Thursday 15 May.
"Taiko" is Japanese for "drum", but this show is no ordinary exhibition of drumming skills.
Mugenkyo are the UK's first and only professional touring taiko group and since their foundation in 1994 they have built an outstanding reputation for their hard-hitting and energetic performances.
They present taiko in a modern and theatrical style - with precise choreography, dramatic lighting and a variety of costumes ranging from gorgeous earthy silks to post-apocalyptic industrial.
The concert is extremely musically varied - powerful rhythms, huge taiko drums, delicate shinobue bamboo flutes and expressive percussion.
Most of the pieces performed by Mugenkyo are modern and have been composed by the group themselves.
Through their ten years of rigorous touring, they have developed a style that is uniquely their own. Retaining the traditional spirit of taiko yet creating a thoroughly contemporary sound, Mugenkyo are forging a new path with their innovative approach.
They are much in demand around the world and have appeared on numerous television and radio programmes including at the Brit Awards, the Last Night of the Proms and BBC TV's Generation Game. They have even featured in a Bollywood film.
Claire Munroe, of Hartlepool Council's Heritage and Museums Service, said: "With its passion, exuberance, humour and intensity, the concert will take you through a myriad of moods, from the heart-pounding excitement of 'Ikkyo' and the dark, sinister 'Otherworld' to the hypnotic 'Phoenix' and the happy, festival atmosphere of 'Matsuri'.
"If you've never experienced the exhilaration of a Mugenkyo performance, don't miss this fabulous opportunity."
The performance starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost £14, or £12 for concessions. To book call the Box Office on 01429 890000.
