Festival Deploys the Big Drums

East meets West...port, when Bon Odori, Japan's biggest summer festival, presents its traditional pleasures in Jesup Green. The Japan Society of Fairfield County, Bon Odori's organizer, has introduced people to this joyful memorial to ancestors, since 1993.  Japanese folk dancing, bamboo stalk decorating and Taiko drumming, the big drums, performed by Sandra Shen's O-Tatsu Taiko, are all part of the program. Founded by Sandra Shen in 2001, O-Tatus Taiko expanded from its original four members -- who shared two taiko drums --  and practiced in Sandra’s living room. Now, O-Tatsu Taiko has over 19 active participants who give over 10 performances, run at least four special events, host many workshops led by professional taiko players and build about three or four new taiko each year. In addition to their day jobs. O-Tatsu equipment includes over 13 drums made by group members. Now, with two practice spaces, in Greenwich and Pelham, NY, Sandra gets to have her living room back. The Bon Odori Festival is free and takes place from 2-4:30 p.m. on July 25 at Jesup Green, by the Westport Library. The previous date was July 10 but anticipated bad weather has forced its organizers to move it to the 25th. For more information, visit the Japan Society's website.

Click here to follow Daily Voice Norwalk and receive free news updates.