2020 N. Soldier Trail n Tucson, AZ 85749 n 520-297-9133 n jholden2@mindspring.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Jonathan Holden (520) 440-4455

To interview Shidara contact (81) 536-76-1708 or megan@shidara.co.jp

Shidara Taiko Group from Japan

Preserving the Folk Tradition of Japan Through Song, Music and Dance

July 14, 2006 (Tucson, Ariz.) Deep from within the mountains of Japan comes this troupe of brilliant young men and women, presenting the art of Taiko – Japanese drumming - like it's never before been seen before. Rhythm & Roots and Odaiko Sonora proudly present SHIDARA’s Arizona debut on Saturday, Aug. 26 at the Berger Performing Arts Center. Blending top-notch skill, blinding energy and breakneck speed, their performances carry a deeper spiritual purpose rooted in ancient times. Defying time and place, their music captures the earthy tones of long ago, and thunders with new images of Japanese mountain life. In their signature piece, Niebuchi, one realizes the immense drama of the roaring river whirlpool that members pass by in daily training.
The SHIDARA ensemble explodes with masterful stick work, then ushers the audience softly away with the soulful harmonies of shinobue bamboo flutes. Adding layer upon layer of passion, precision and spirited humor, the performance builds up to their grand finale, re-creating the 700-year old Hanamatsuri dance festival celebrated in the small villages deep in the Higashisonome mountains. The sheer joy of SHIDARA's stage resonates in the minds and hearts of the audience long after the last beat has been played.

Rhythm & Roots and Odaiko Sonora present

Shidara Taiko Group from Japan

Saturday, Aug. 26, 7:30 pm

Berger Performing Arts Center, ASDB

1200 W. Speedway, ½ mile west of I-10

General Admission $22 advance/$25 door

Advance tickets at Antigone Books, CD City,

Enchanted Earthworks, online www.rhythmandroots.org

More info at 297-9133

SHIDARA has toured throughout Japan, Europe and the United States. They have performed at the North American Taiko Conference in Los Angeles and received first prize at the International Kumi-Daiko Contest in Tokyo.

"Taiko" is the Japanese word for drum, and refers to both the instrument and the art form. Taiko began in ancient Japan as a form of communication for troop movements and village activities. Because of its importance in the rituals of daily life, it grew to become sacred, and its use in Shinto and Buddhist religions as well as Kabuki Theater continues into modern times.

For more information about Shidara’s U.S. tour visit: www.shidara.co.jp

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