YAMATO The Drummers of Japan, Peacock Theatre Review

YAMATO The Drummers of Japan / Hinotori © Genta Ogawa

Written by Cathie for Theatre & Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.

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The Peacock Theatre is alive with the sound of drumming as YAMATO: Drummers of Japan have returned to London for the first time since 2019. Originating from Asuka-mura in the Nara Prefecture, the acknowledged cradle of Japanese culture, YAMATO has brought the essence of Japanese traditional music to audiences around the globe for the last thirty years. This show is a delightful feast for your senses and a perfect antidote to the deluge summer rain we have been promised.

Many different sized types of Taiko drums are placed across the stage, some are small handheld drums and others are as tall as the performers, yet the set itself is simple and elegant. This team of nine drummers are truly phenomenal musicians and their prodigious dedication to Taiko drumming is clear. Their level of athleticism is to be greatly admired and they work incredibly hard throughout the entire performance of nonstop music. Every sequence is unique and although the cast are perfectly in harmony, this show also makes sure to highlight each member of the ensemble at different points throughout as well. There is a huge variety of movement on the stage and the drummers move and dance with the drums throughout. We also get to experience a variety of other Japanese instruments as well as some slower, gentler soulful performances as well as the fantastic drumming pieces.  The sound is extremely loud naturally, as some of these drums are almost as tall as the performers themselves. However, if you’re sensitive to sound, there is no issue about wearing noise cancelling headphones during the performance and with them the performance is still equally enjoyable.

This is a very active show and some level of audience participation is encouraged in the routines at a certain point. The audience participation and sheer infectious positive energy was beautiful to take part in, for some it was almost a mini workout but far more satisfying than your average gym class. For their opening night, it was no surprise that the drummer ensemble had a standing ovation from the entire auditorium and called back twice to bow again. Music is the best of form of connection and easily crosses culture to speak to you as an individual and as a collective audience. This performance is very spiritual as well and is a brilliant introduction to traditional Japanese culture. The cast are enormously cheerful and passionate throughout and this show is incredibly empowering, invigorating and engaging to watch. There are also some very entertaining comedic routines and I cannot stress enough how often myself and many others laughed with sheer joy throughout.

It is by far the most enjoyable concert I have been to all year. They have won me over to be a lifelong fan with their cheerful vitality, fabulous chorography and amazing drumming skills. You will leave feeling energised, refreshed and with the largest of smiles across your face. If you go to one concert in London this year I’d suggest, make it this one.

At Peacock Theatre until 22 June 2024.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆