Entertainment
18 April, 2026
Drumming to the beat
JAPAN’S Drum Tao will return to Australian stages in April 2026, bringing its internationally acclaimed drumming spectacle to Cairns as part of a national tour.
After captivating 10 million people worldwide, the performance group will take to the stage at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre on Tuesday 21 April 2026.
The production combines traditional Japanese Wadaiko drums with martial arts athleticism, choreography and cinematic staging, creating what organisers describe as a theatrical live experience.
“This extraordinary production is proudly presented by Rokitz Entertainment. Drum Tao transcends borders and redefines live performance,” according to organisers.
“It is not just a concert – it is a theatrical event of the year, delivering artistry, intensity and passion that will leave audiences exhilarated and truly inspired,” they said.
Drum Tao lead performer Taro Harasaki told Cairns Local News the upcoming tour marked a significant return.
“It is 16 years since our last performance in Australia,” he said.
“We are really looking forward to being back in Australia … for all of our guest performers who are joining this tour, it is very special.”
The tour is travelling across Queensland, New South Wales, the ACT and Victoria, and began on the Gold Coast on Friday 10 April, before moving through Brisbane, Redcliffe, Maryborough, Toowoomba, Caloundra and Bundaberg ahead of the Cairns performance.
Described as a “worldwide Wadaiko entertainment group”, Drum Tao’s performances feature traditional Japanese instruments in a contemporary setting designed to appeal to a broad audience.
“Our show itself has been modernised, but still remaining those, you know, traditional aspects,” Mr Harasaki said.
The group blends traditional rhythms with modern techniques, incorporating digital composition alongside older methods.
“It’s just already the mixture and the fusion of the modern stuff and the traditions,” they said.
Performers also undergo intensive physical training, including early-morning runs and strength sessions, to maintain the stamina needed for live shows.
International reviews have highlighted the scale and intensity of the production.
“The world’s most electrifying percussion ensemble returns - louder, faster and more visually stunning than ever,” Broadway World said.
Tickets for the Cairns show are available through TicketLink on 1300 855 835, with the tour concluding in Victoria in early May.
