Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers: Tribe at the Grove Theatre Dunstable Review

Reviewed by Alex Wiggins

The Japanese art form of Taiko brings together movement and music in synchronisation and spectacular volume in this show stopping performance by the Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers. This group formed in 1994 from all over the world with many performers training in Japan. Though a small group of six, the sound on stage was phenomenal!

The first act took the audience through a series of powerful, exhausting sets! The camaraderie formed in training in this art was evident in the perfect timing and synchronisation of the group. The stamina involved by all on stage is testament to the level of training and commitment given to this art form. My biggest issue with the whole show was my personal lack of knowledge of this art form and what the show represents.

Having travelled to places such as Lebanon with this show, the first act was very political in nature – a little too much for my taste. I felt a little out of my depth and wasn’t sure what I was to experience next. Thankfully, the second act started with an introduction explaining what this group is all about and the discipline of this art form. NOW it made sense and gave me the chance to settle into the second act, knowing what I was experiencing! I would have felt happier having had that explanation from the beginning.

This is not just a show, it is an experience! I am glad that the explanation enabled me to walk away saying I thoroughly enjoyed the show, though for me, it is a once in a life time experience which I don’t personally need to experience again. That is not a negative, that is simply, it has taken me as far as this art form can take me, but I would thoroughly recommend anyone with an interest in theatre, music, excitement and spirituality, to experience this show at least once in their lifetime.

Rating: 4/5

Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers are currently on tour, for more information and tour dates visit www.taiko.co.uk.

For other shows at the Grove Theatre in Dunstable visit www.grovetheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01582 602080.

Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP | 01582 602080