Legend has it that the first taiko (Japanese drum) was forged when the sun deity, Amaterasu, threw in the proverbial towel and went off to hide in a cave after her troublesome brother had annoyed her one too many times. All the other spirits of nature, who didn’t want to live in darkness, got together to try and make her see sense. They decided to have a party, during which Ame no Uzume put on a very exciting dance, stomping her feet on a wooden tub until the sound of music and merriment drew Amaterasu out, and the world was bathed in sunlight again. Of course, historically, we have the Chinese to thank for introducing the drum to Japan. But we like a nice story, preferably one that involves mythology and otherworldly beings.
Since ancient times the Japanese drum was used in court music, Shinto ceremonies and during warfare. It would not only set the marching pace, but warriors and troops were spurred on to the sound of the taiko’s courageous beating on the battlefield. Today, few names have become synonymous with the modern taiko drum. One of them is Eitetsu Hayashi. Ranked among the world’s leading taiko drummers and a living cultural asset for Japan, his performances have been described as inspiring contemplative tranquillity and explosive emotion. And this week he will be gracing Abu Dhabi shores with a concert that is not to be missed.
The occasion celebrates 40 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and four Gulf countries; Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and the UAE. Naturally, his first ever Middle East tour will include all four states. Eitetsu’s Abu Dhabi show is taking place thanks to the combined organisational forces of ADACH, the Japanese Embassy, the Japan Foundation and the capital’s Japanese community.
As a soloist, Eitetsu is best known for having created a new method of taiko playing, which entails brand new techniques and showcases a level of physical stamina never before seen. On stage, he’s a mind-blowing one-man-show, seamlessly switching from a thunderous pounding to a soft, rhythmic beat without stopping to catch his breath. His flexibility is remarkable and his energy astounding for a man now in his 60s. Guaranteed to make an equally memorable impression is Eitetsu’s O-daiko drum, also visiting the region for the first time. This is a 300kg giant, measuring 130 centimeters in diameter, which towers over the artist. With it, Eitetsu has created an iconic image over the years; of the drummer with his back to the audience. It’s a powerful combination of sight and sound, packing intense reverberations incomparable to the playing of any other instrument.
‘Even when I am performing with my back to the audience,’ Eitetsu has said, in an interview with the Performing Arts Network Japan, ‘I can still feel the attention of the audience becoming more focused and intense as the performance proceeds […] They say it is “awesome!” But it was very difficult training myself to reach that level of performance. I have to keep my arms raised high above my head and maintain a low lower-body stance with one knee bent and continue to keep the rhythm going without a single moment’s lapse and without breaking that posture.’ We doubt there is any other example of a performance of that nature, which lasts as long as Eitetsu Hayashi can make it.
Now on this visit Eitetsu will not only be performing solo on his O-daiko, but he’ll also be playing ensemble style. For this, he’s going to be joined by the Eitetsu Fu-un no Kai, a group of top young drummers, who perform the master’s original compositions, and support him when he is playing in an ensemble.
Abu Dhabi National Theatre will be hosting the event, which is not only free but requires no prior registration. This to us means only one thing, show up in time or you’ll miss a fantastic opportunity. In fact, show up a tad earlier, and you can catch a Japanese food demonstration and also take some time to view the photography exhibition on display at the venue.
February 26 from 8pm. Abu Dhabi National Theatre and Cultural Centre, Airport Rd, between 15th St and 17th St (02 445 2501).
