[Two-day / Overnight] Experience Onidaiko: Two-day Overnight Tour (Kasuga)

Until now, you may have experienced Kasuga Onidaiko, Hamakawachi Onidaiko and Minamikatabe Ontaiko through EC workshops. This year, join us for the first-ever two-day, overnight tour where you will be able to experience on of the three companies in their home villages and visit the shrines and garages where they rehearse for their matsuri performances. At the end of the two days, participants from all three villages will come together at the Harbour Market for a special presentation. Come enjoy mingling with the local youth and immerse yourself in the authentic art in the lives of each village.

[About the Onidaiko of Kasuga]

The Onidaiko group of Kasuga in Sado’s town of Ryotsu is now celebrating its 85^th year since its founding. Rehearsals begin one month before the festival, and on April 14 every year, the group pulls a large float with a taiko and travels throughout the town to its 250 homes, celebrating a valiant demon. Children fight each other to scramble onto the float and dance with the demon; it is a festive occasion for all. Since 2003, this Onidaiko group has led eight workshops at EC, and has thrilled audiences with their interactive performances in town for many years. The group has embraced the philosophy of keeping an open heart towards anyone who has the passion for the craft and Kasuga Onidaiko has now extended beyond Japan; after 10 years of developing a collaborative relationship, this year for the first time, Kasuga Onidaiko was introduced in North America by a Sacramento-based wadaiko group.