Entertainment
17 October, 2026
Free community event by Japanese drummers
CAIRNS-based Japanese drumming group Drum Infinity Mugendai will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a free community concert at Edge Hill State School on 31 October.
Formed in Cairns in 2016, the group will bring together 20 current members and four alumni for a performance of traditional Japanese drumming, known as taiko.
The concert will feature professional taiko performer Ryuji Hamada, who performs with Taikoz and has appeared internationally, including performances on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and at the Sydney Opera House.
Mr Hamada will also perform a song he composed for Drum Infinity Mugendai in 2025.
Co-founder Makiko Omae said the group’s name, Mugendai, meant ‘infinite’ or ‘limitless’ in Japanese, reflecting its commitment to preserving traditional taiko while exploring contemporary performances.
“Looking back over the past decade, I believe we have not only stayed true to that dream, but have grown far beyond what we originally imagined,” he said.
President and music director Chisa Hasegawa, who joined the group in its founding year, said the anniversary would recognise the contributions of performers and supporters over the past decade.
“The concert is dedicated to everyone who has supported us on this journey, on the stage and off, so I feel a responsibility to ensure we do their contributions justice,” she said.
“Watching taiko live is like no other experience; you can expect high energy and thunderous beats that send a vibration through your whole body.
“Audiences can also expect to see a decade’s worth of passion and the players who will continue to shape the future of our team.”
Doors open at Edge Hill State School at 3.30pm and shows begin at 4pm. No tickets are required.
