Issho: Rhythm Connection

"Issho: Rhythm Connection" is Portland Taiko's first major theater production since 2019. "Issho," meaning "together" in Japanese, represents a powerful return to the indoor stage. The performance will explore the connections possible with taiko – linking performers with one another, 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.

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.

About Portland Taiko

Portland Taiko blends the tradition of Japanese taiko drumming with a sense of Asian American identity, creativity, and empowerment. Formed in 1994 by Ann Ishimaru, Zachary Semke, and Japanese American community activists, Portland Taiko started with one homemade taiko and practice drums made from car tires. With community support, the group built and purchased new drums, presented its first full-length concert in 1997, and became a non-profit organization and toured North America in the early 2000s.

The group has headlined at arts festivals and concert halls, released three CDs, and has performed at hundreds of community events and school assemblies. Portland Taiko has commissioned and collaborated with numerous artists, including Hanayui, Shohei Kikuchi, Seiichi Tanaka, Kenny Endo, Tiffany Tamaribuchi, Subashini Ganesan, Obo Addy, Sivagami Vanka, Carla Mann, Mike Barber, and Minh Tran.

Portland Taiko performs throughout the Pacific Northwest, offers classes and workshops, and conducts team-building workshops for businesses and community groups. Portland Taiko is eager to share its artistry and educational programs throughout the greater Portland community and the country. To date, Portland Taiko has reached over 1 million audience members at over 1500 performances at theaters, schools, community events, and festivals.