Issho Rhythm Connection

Issho: Rhythm Connection is Portland Taiko’s first major theater production since 2019. After spending much of the last three years in virtual rehearsals and outdoor performances, the members of Portland Taiko felt a need to reconnect: to each other, to friends and family, to longtime supporters and the greater community.

“Issho,” meaning “together” in Japanese, represents a powerful return to the indoor stage. The performance will explore the connections possible with taiko – linking each performer with each other, with their instruments and with everyone their sound reaches.

The performance will include pieces not performed in many years in addition to fan favorites. The world–class Patricia Reser Center of the Arts is the perfect space to present this wide range of compositions, from intricate numbers featuring just two drummers, to beautiful combinations of taiko with violin and flute, to thunderous full ensemble pieces.

Portland Taiko blends the tradition of Japanese taiko drumming with a sense of Asian American identity, creativity and empowerment. The group has headlined at arts festivals and concert halls and performed at hundreds of schools and community events. In recent months, Portland Taiko has performed at Oregon Rises Above Hate, Portland’s Refuge Day Walk, the Hiroshima/Nagasaki Memorial Service and the Rose Festival Starlight Parade.

For those who have never seen taiko before, Issho will be an excellent introduction. Those already familiar with taiko can look forward to intricate rhythms, exciting choreography and abundant energy and enthusiasm from the crowd and performers.

Photo by: Mark Shigenaga