DRUM TAO’s Taro Harasaki on Tradition, Innovation and the Power of Performance (Interview)
For more than 20 years, Taro Harasaki has been one of the driving forces behind DRUM TAO — the internationally acclaimed Japanese performance ensemble that has captivated over 10 million people across 500 cities worldwide. As the group prepares to return to Australia for the first time since 2010, Harasaki reflects on the evolution of TAO, the discipline behind their craft, and the cultural mission that continues to inspire him every time he steps on stage.
A Performer Driven by Audience Energy
When asked what keeps him motivated after two decades with DRUM TAO, Harasaki’s answer is immediate and heartfelt.
“Honestly, it comes down to seeing the smiles on our audience’s faces and hearing their heartfelt reactions to our shows. That is what keeps me going,” he says.
The journey has included both triumphs and challenges, but the connection with audiences remains his anchor. “The excitement in the hall, the energy, the joyful expressions when the final piece ends — that’s what allows me to continue standing on stage even today.”
Messages from fans who were deeply moved by TAO’s performances serve as powerful reminders of why he continues to dedicate himself to the craft.
A New Era of TAO Arrives in Australia
It has been sixteen years since DRUM TAO last toured Australia, and Harasaki promises that audiences will witness a dramatically evolved production.
“Sixteen years is a very long time, and during that period our stage production, music and costumes have all changed dramatically,” he explains. “The show has become many times more powerful, more exciting and more refined. It almost feels like an entirely new production.”
He emphasises that the performance is designed for everyone — music lovers, fans of Japanese culture, families, and anyone seeking a thrilling night of entertainment.
Training for a Demanding Art Form
Taiko drumming is renowned for its physical intensity, and TAO’s training regimen reflects that. All members live and train together at TAO Village in Japan, where discipline is a way of life.
“When we are not on tour, we start our day at 6 a.m. by running 12 kilometres at an altitude of about 800 metres, followed by strength training and music rehearsals,” Harasaki says. “Men and women follow exactly the same program.”
On tour, the group adapts by using hotel gyms and performing “uchikomi,” a continuous one‑hour drumming practice before each show.
Mental preparation is just as important. Harasaki finds grounding by exploring each city they visit. “It helps me feel that we are performing for that city and for those people,” he says. Music also plays a role in getting him into the right mindset before stepping on stage.
Sharing Japanese Culture with the World
As a cultural ambassador, Harasaki has represented Japan at events including Expo 2025 Osaka and international embassy showcases. He is deeply aware of the responsibility that comes with introducing taiko to new audiences.
“Taiko has existed in Japan for more than two thousand years,” he explains. “But because it is so deeply rooted in local communities, many people see it mainly as traditional, regional music.”
Younger generations in Japan often gravitate toward modern genres, but TAO aims to bridge the gap by blending tradition with contemporary performance.
“We create new and contemporary performances using traditional instruments,” he says. “At the same time, we place great importance on values deeply rooted in Japanese culture — humility, diligence and respect for teamwork.”
Harasaki hopes first‑time audiences discover both the heritage and the innovation behind TAO’s work.
A Global Perspective Shaped by Early Experiences
Before joining DRUM TAO, Harasaki studied abroad in Montreal and worked as a tour guide — experiences that continue to influence his communication style and worldview.
“Living overseas had a profound impact on my life and how I see the world,” he says. “Being able to look at Japan from the outside helped me understand my own country much more deeply.”
Since TAO began touring internationally in 2006, he has participated in almost every overseas tour. “Without those experiences, I would not be who I am today.”
Balancing Tradition and Innovation
TAO’s performances are known for their fusion of taiko, martial arts, choreography and cinematic staging. Harasaki credits founder and director Ikuo Fujitaka for encouraging the ensemble to push artistic boundaries.
“He always tells us that our goal is to create a world‑class entertainment show from Japan that can go beyond Cirque du Soleil,” Harasaki says. “To achieve that, he encourages us to stay open to everything and not be bound by existing ideas.”
Yet tradition remains at the heart of TAO’s identity. “We carefully weave traditional Japanese values, aesthetics and movement into modern music and staging,” he explains.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Harasaki has also led workshops and school performances, hoping to spark curiosity in young audiences.
“I want children to know that Japan is not only about manga, anime and high‑tech innovation,” he says. “We also have traditional instruments that can deeply move people’s hearts.”
He hopes TAO’s performances encourage young people to rediscover their own cultural heritage — not just what is currently popular.
Looking Ahead After Two Decades
Despite performing in countless countries, Harasaki feels there is still much more to explore.
“There are still so many places we have not yet visited, and countless people who may know about Japan but have never experienced taiko,” he says.
His hope for the future is simple yet ambitious: “I want to reach those people, share powerful and moving moments with audiences around the world, and maybe one day hear someone say, ‘When you think of Japan, you think of DRUM TAO.’”
The Sensational unrivalled Drumming Spectacular from Japan DRUM TAO Returns to Australian Stages in April 2026
After captivating 10-Million people worldwide, the phenomenal Japan’s DRUM TAO returns to Australia in April 2026 with their most breathtaking production yet. Fusing the ancient thunderous power of Taiko Drumming with Martial Arts athleticism, incomparable high-quality choreography and cinematic staging proving nothing short of flawless production values of contemporary Japanese excellence. This extraordinary production is proudly presented by Rokitz Entertainment. DRUM TAO transcends borders and redefines live performance. It is not just a concert – it is a theatrical event of the year, delivering artistry, intensity and passion that will leave audiences exhilarated and truly-inspired. With DRUM TAO’s spectacle, energetic and universal appeal this production is a thrilling experience for audiences of all ages.
10-million audience members in 500 cities in 31 countries! One of the best non-verbal entertainment experiences in Japan. An overwhelming performance by Japanese Drummers and people playing many different traditional Japanese musical instruments. It is truly a one-of-a-kind performing art.When t hey performed off Broadway in 2016, all of their shows were sold out. DRUM TAO was praised highly as the “face” of Japan, promoting the country around the world.
DRUM TAO APRIL/MAY 2026 AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES
Friday 10th April, 2026 – HOTA Home Of The Arts, GOLD COAST QLD – 4.00pm and 7.30pm – Bookings: (07) 5588 4000
Sunday 12th April, 2026 – TWIN TOWNS CLUBS & RESORTS SHOWROOM, TWEED HEADS NSW – 7.00pm – Bookings: 1800 014 014
Monday 13th April, 2026 – THE CONCERT HALL, QPAC BRISBANE QLD – 4.00pm and 7.30pm – Bookings: 136 246 www.qpac.com.au
Tuesday 14th April, 2026 – REDCLIFFE ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE QLD – 7.30pm – Bookings: (07) 3480 6280
Wednesday 15th April, 2026 – BROLGA THEATRE & CONVENTION CENTRE, MARYBOROUGH QLD – 7.30pm – Bookings: (07) 4122 6060
Thursday 16th April, 2026 – THE EMPIRE THEATRE, TOOWOOMBA QLD – 7.30pm – Bookings: 1300 655 299
Saturday 18th April, 2026 – THE EVENTS CENTRE, CALOUNDRA QLD – 7.30pm – Bookings: (07) 5491 4240
Sunday 19th April, 2026 – THE MONCRIEFF ENTERETAINMENT CENTRE, BUNDABERG QLD – Bookings: (07) 4130 4100
Tuesday 21st April, 2026 – CAIRNS PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE QLD – Bookings: TicketLink 1300 855 835
Friday 24th April, 2026 – CIVIC THEATRE, NEWCASTLE NSW – Bookings: Ticketek www.ticketek.com.au
Sunday 26th April, 2026 – STATE THEATRE, SYDNEY NSW – 6.00pm – Bookings: Ticketmaster www.ticketmaster.com.au
Monday 27th April, 2026 – SYDNEY COLISEUM THEATRE, WEST HQ NSW – Bookings: Ticketek www.ticketek.com.au
Tuesday 28th April, 2026 – CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE ACT – Bookings: (02) 6275 2700
Thursday 30th April, 2026 – KARRALYKA CENTRE, RINGWOOD VIC – 4.30pm and 7.30pm – Bookings: (03) 9870 2888
Friday 1st May, 2026 – BUNJIL PLACE, NARRE WARREN VIC – Bookings: (03) 9709 9700
Saturday 2nd May, 2026 – FRANKSTON ARTS CENTRE VIC – Bookings: (03) 9784 1060
Sunday 3rd May, 2026 – HAMER HALL, ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE VIC – 6.00pm – Bookings: www.ticketek.com.au
About the Author
Andrew Bistak When he's not trying to save the world, Andrew enjoys travel (although loathes turbulence), going to the movies, reading and being a dad to his two dogs (and now twins) with his wife.
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