Free performances, workshops and master classes at Exeter’s UK Taiko Festival in June

THE sound of taiko drumming will again fill the streets of Exeter in June.

The eighth UK Taiko Festival will take place between Friday, June 29 and Sunday, July 1.

Originating in Japan in the 1950s, taiko drumming has become a global phenomenon.

There will be a mixture of theatre concerts, free public performances, workshops for beginners and master classes for regular taiko players.

Groups from France and the USA have already confirmed they will attend.

UK Taiko festival director, Jonathan Kirby, a pioneer of taiko in the UK, will lead his group, Kagemusha Taiko, for its first headline show at the festival on Saturday, June 30 at Exeter Northcott Theatre.

They will be joined by London-based Taiko Meantime, regulars at Glastonbury Festival.

British youth groups will feature prominently in the Feast of Taiko concert on Friday, June 29, also at the Northcott.

Taiko in the Park, a free concert by UK taiko groups, will take place from 1pm to 3.30pm at Piazza Terracina, Exeter Quay.

On Sunday, July 1, from noon to 3pm, Taiko Sunday offers free performances, workshops and master classes.

For tickets contact the box office on 01392 493493. For online tickets and more details, see www.exeternorthcott.co.uk.