Drumming up a night to remember
12 October 2006
The Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers are making a return visit to the NEWI William Aston Hall next Thursday (19th October). Their concert will feature powerful taiko rhythms, huge drums, highly choreographed movement and delicate flute in a spectacular modern stage show.
The Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers have spearheaded the growing movement to develop taiko drumming as a European art form, through high profile performance, television appearances and extensive touring. The Mugenkyo drummers receive outstanding reviews and standing ovations.
There are about 10,000 Taiko groups in Japan; 100 groups in the USA and about 15 groups in Europe of which Mugenkyo are the only professional group. They have previously played at a variety of festivals including the Rhythm Sticks Festival, Phoenix Rock Festival, and the Glastonbury Festival. They have also performed at numerous large-scale events including the 2003 Cup Final at the Millennium Stadium, the Birmingham Motor Show and at the film premiere of ‘The Last Samurai’.
One of the founders of the Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers, Neil Mackie describes a Mugenko concert as very varied; “it uses different lighting and theatrical elements” he said. “Some of the songs are very high energy with fast powerful rhythms. Some songs are slower and very graceful to watch, with highly choreographed and synchronised movement. Some songs involve quieter percussion instruments, such as gongs and bells. The concert is a whole experience in itself. Takio appeals to absolutely everyone and cuts across every musical boundary. Personally I love it for exactly that reason, it’s physical, it’s music, it’s rhythm, it’s energy, it’s dance, it’s everything! A live Taiko concert is a very moving experience.”
“Mugenkyo perform Taiko with manifest skill and awesome relentless energy... Mugenkyo sustains its appeal right to the climax, winning thunderous applause.“ The Stage
Tickets are priced at £13 or £11 for concessions, from the Tourist Information Centre, Lambpit Street, Wrexham or telephone 01978 292015. The show starts at 7.30pm on Thursday 19th October, in the NEWI William Aston Hall.