Seattle Theatre Group (STG) presents TAO: The Martial Art of Drumming at The Moore Theatre on Friday, January 29, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. For the first time in Seattle, witness an evening length performance of intense muscular strength, alluring artistry and aesthetic grace that seamlessly incorporates a captivating mix of drum, dance and music - a stimulating, heart-pounding arrangement for the senses.
Making primary use of the Japanese Taiko drum, a simple traditional instrument, TAO breaks Taiko from its confines of being the "successor of Japan's traditional culture" to develop a totally new genre of entertainment. Known to have the world's greatest sound pressure, use of the Taiko drum in every TAO performance reveals infinite possibilities for dynamic, energetic and explosive drumming.
Setting them apart from the numerous Japanese Taiko groups, the performance structure and production team building of TAO is distinctly their own. Combine a troupe of performers committed to undertaking hardened physical training, a highly skilled technical staff and the results are breathtaking: athletic bodies in contemporary costumes engaged innovative choreography.
Forming in 1993 in Aichi prefecture in Japan, TAO set up base at a site of 40,000 square meters, surrounded by nature in a national park at Kyushu's Kuju Plateau, prided as one of Japan's most picturesque areas. While receiving inspiration from the rich natural environment, they grappled with the meaning of real music while at the same time continuing to produce new pieces. Spectators should expect the rhythm of an opera, the sophistication of a musical, and a melody that summons images of classic landscapes and other worldliness.
Besides receiving tremendous support in Japan as the "Japanese Taiko Group with a difference," TAO has been received with open arms overseas. Fifteen countries, hundreds of sold-out shows and more than 3 million spectators proves that modern entertainment based on the traditional art of Japanese drumming has massive international appeal.
Tickets: Tao: The Martial Art of Drumming performance tickets are $30.00 - $58.00 and are available online at www.stgpresents.org, by phone at (877) STG-4TIX or (877) 784-4849, in person at The Paramount Theatre box office, Monday through Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and The Paramount and Moore Theatre venue kiosks, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. Group sales are available at (866) 798-7469. The Moore Theatre is located at 1932 Second Ave in downtown Seattle.
About STG: STG is the 501 (c)(3) non-profit arts organization that operates the historic Paramount and
Moore Theatres in Seattle, Washington. Our mission is to make diverse performing arts and education an
integral part of our region's cultural identity while keeping these two landmark venues alive and vibrant.
STG presents a range of performances from Broadway, off-Broadway, dance and jazz to comedy, concerts
of all genres, speakers and family shows - at both historic theatres in Seattle and venues throughout the
Puget Sound and Portland, Oregon.
