SOUTHERN AZ TAIKO SHOWCASE Wed – Sep 3, 2025 – 7:00pm MST “Japanese ensemble drumming, or taiko, is often described as a musical martial arts team sport. For the first time in its history the North American Taiko Conference will be held in Arizona in September 2025. This gathering of taiko players offers CPAC the opportunity to present taiko and Japanese traditions in music and dance by a variety of visiting artists. Musicians from Sacramento, LA, Minneapolis, and Maui will perform as part of the event.

A free to the public pre-show demonstration will include a mini-obon festival on the patio at 6:30 p.m.. Obon is the most beloved of Japanese festivals. Kay Fukumoto, founder and leader of Maui Taiko, will introduce the song and dance that her family brought to Hawai’s from Fukushima, Japan, and members of the community will have an opportunity to try out the simple dance. Come learn about the roots of taiko and gain a greater appreciation for this historical art form!

Tickets: https://performingartscenter.thundertix.com/events/241180

www.tucsontaiko.org

CPAC (Community Performance & Art Center) is at 1250 W. Continental Rd. in Green Valley.