Japanese Taiko Drum Ensemble ONDEKOZA Performance

The Short Grass Arts Council in partnership with Arts Midwest World Fest presents Ondekoza! Hear the thundering sounds of taiko drums with the world-famous ensemble Ondekoza from Japan. Fusing incredible athleticism, pounding rhythms, and peaceful melodies, their performances will leave you inspired and energized. Experience an unforgettable creative force that has captivated audiences across the globe. For videos of the group’s past performances visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=2yV1SO58AxU Formed in 1969, Ondekoza are masters of the world-renowned art of taiko drumming. In a performance that is as much dance as drumming, the thundering taiko style must be experienced live. At the foundation of Ondekoza’s style is a unique combination of physical fitness, running, and drumming—a philosophy called sogakuron, where “running and drumming are one, and a reflection of the drama and energy of life.” They demonstrated this principle in 1975 in Boston, where after completing the Boston Marathon, Ondekoza immediately ran onstage for a full concert performance. Ondekoza members live together in Japan, running and drumming at the base of Mt. Fuji. A program of Arts Midwest, the 2017–2019 Arts Midwest World Fest cycle is generously supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, 3M Foundation, The Hearst Foundations, and the Japan Foundation through the Performing Arts JAPAN program. Additional support is provided by the Ministry of Culture of the People’s Republic of China for Manhu, the Chinese Heritage Foundation Grants Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation, the Consulate General of Israel to the Midwest for Sofi & the Baladis. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund. Arts Midwest is also generously supported by Illinois Arts Council Agency, Indiana Arts Commission, Iowa Arts Council, Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, Minnesota State Arts Board, North Dakota Council on the Arts, Ohio Arts Council, South Dakota Arts Council, and Wisconsin Arts Board.