By Jane Wilson 
Elegant and slick yet bold and in perfect rhythm, the internationally acclaimed Japanese drumming ensemble, DRUM TAO, presented the UK premiere of The Dream, following their extensive tour across Japan, Singapore and Europe. Pulsating with energy bursting at the seams it had us all tapping, clapping and stomping in tune with the beat. This was an experience not to be missed.
Using the whole stage of London’s Peacock Theatre, Sadler’s Wells home of entertainment, this high-tempo production was memorising as it was immersive, transporting the entranced audience to the music culture of Japan.
DRUM TAO’s impressive athleticism and large scale taiko drumming which boomed out with force were combined with precise choreography amid stunning visuals. And fashioned in contemporary and flowing costumes in black, white and silver, the dancers and musicians flung themselves around the space. This was a one-of-a-kind instrumental performance, with the distinctly Japanese line-up of Wadaiko drums contrasting with the melodic Shinobue (flute), Koto (harp), and Syamisen (guitar). The backdrop was also laced in shades of black and silver mirroring a scene straight from the interior of homes in Oita with draped Japanese panels, known as Shoji Blinds, traced with decorative painting and calligraphy over translucent frames imbued with mystical light effects. 
DRUM TAO’s traditional style paired with intense physicality and contemporary musical interpretations has earned them millions of YouTube views, a sold-out Off-Broadway run, and opportunities to represent Japan around the world. Over ten million spectators worldwide have experienced DRUM TAO’s dynamic productions, with the 2025 Peacock Theatre performances heralding DRUM TAO’s much-anticipated London debut.
Oita Prefecture (大分県, Ōita-ken) is located on the eastern coast of Kyushu. The prefectural capital is Oita City. The prefecture is famous for its large amount of hot spring waters and popular hot spring resorts, including Beppu and Yufuin as well as several charming castle towns, including Kitsuki and Taketa, where history is brought to life through festivals and events.
About DRUM TAO
The drumming ensemble was established in 1993, with a dream of creating the best shows in the world using Taiko drums (Japanese drums), the instrument which has a very rare and unique variety of sound expressions. DRUM TAO set their base at Oita, Japan and started creating their own music, stage set-ups, and costumes. Over ten million spectators have been reached across the world. DRUM TAO’s stage is created through phenomenal performances and expressions. In 2018, they performed in the opening ceremony of “Japonism 2018” in Paris, France. They were awarded “Outstanding Cultural Contribution” from Oita prefecture, “Culture Creators Award” from Taketa city in Oita prefecture, “The 6th Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner Award” and “Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications Award” from the Japanese government.
About Sadler’s Wells
Sadler’s Wells is a world-leading dance organisation with the aim to make and share dance that inspires us all. Their year-round programme spans dance of every kind, from contemporary to flamenco, Bollywood to ballet, salsa to street dance and tango to tap. They commission, produce and present more dance than any other organisation in the world. Since 2005, they have helped to bring more than 200 new dance works to the stage, embracing both the popular and the unknown.
Press images can be downloaded from http://media.sadlerswells.com
