The powerful beat of taiko (Japanese drums) of different sizes vibrates the air, while the delicate sound of shinobue (bamboo flute) adds spice to the dynamic rhythm. On stage is taiko troupe Tokyo Dageki Dan: four muscular men drumming and another with the flute.
"I want to include artistic elements in the performance by collaborating with different artists," said Jin'ichi Hiranuma, the group's founder, producer and director, before the recent appearance at the Setagaya Public Theatre.
Tokyo Dageki Dan's members are in their 20s to 40s, with such different musical backgrounds as jazz, pop and flamenco. Hiranuma produces and directs. In recent years, Tokyo Dageki Dan has successfully toured in Europe and Africa. In France, it played at the closing ceremony of the 1998 World Cup, representing Japan.