Having performed all around the world, the taiko (drum) ensemble Kodo is back in Japan, ready to conclude its "One Earth Tour 2012: Legend" with a Christmas Eve show in Tokyo on Dec. 24.
The big news for the Sado Island-based taiko group this year was that famed kabuki actor Bando Tamasaburo V took over as Kodo's artistic director from April, and the One Earth tour, which started in May, has been the first one under his direction.
"I have created a show where the traditionally imposing style of Kodo meets flamboyance and airiness and undulate together," said Tamasaburo, 62, who was named a Living National Treasure by the Japanese government in September. "I hope everyone will enjoy it, and I dream about creating another legend for Kodo."
The "One Earth Tour" will start its 2013 edition in February when the ensemble heads to the United States. In May they will return to Japan for another nationwide tour.
Of the three year-end concerts scheduled in Tokyo starting Dec. 22, the first two are sold out, but there are some tickets available for the performance on Dec. 24. For reservations and inquiries in English, call (0259) 86-3630 or visit www.kodo.or.jp/news/index_en.html.