Tao: The Art of the Drum at the Long Center

Image courtesy “drum-tao.com”

In one of the more interesting acts, the audience was invited to participate with an imaginary ping-pong ball and paddle. The performers mimed for us to clap in unison. As the rhythm was building, imaginary balls were volleyed back and forth ending in a crescendo of percussion. The performers then proceeded to walk off the stage, into the audience to interact with us. Not your typical Japanese theatrical production.

When we think of Japan, we think tradition. The rigidity of this society permeates the arts. It is customary for Japanese performers to pass down their craft from father to son and female roles have traditionally been played by men. Tao: The Art of the Drum breaks this mold by transforming Japanese themes into a modern rendition. Women have a definitive place on stage as well.

Rather than uphold a tradition, Tao: The Art of Drum is entertainment that aims to delight its audience. The performers vigorously beat the “Taiko” drum, (typically used for traditions and rituals), using all of their body to rhythmically interact with the beat. Choreographed in martial arts style, their highly toned bodies tell their strength.

Tao: The Art of Drum, now considered a top production, is the rage in Japan. It is in a class with American entertainment iconography, think “Stomp” and “Blue Man Group”.

Blog by Lucas

“Free Range Thinking” by Robert Dubac at The Rollins Theatre, the Long Center

Robert Dubac appearing in Free Range Thinking

Sitting in the dark, surrounded by strangers, I found myself laughing out loud…

Written and acted by Robert Dubac, “Free Range Thinking” is an engaging and thought provoking performance, a message about ourselves in the modern world, delivered with biting wit. The good, the bad, the ridiculous. We are invited to re-think who we are as a culture.

In monologue, Mr. Dubac unravels our thinking process to uncover the truth about hypocrisy in our modern society. As he takes us through the topics of politics, religion, media, reality shows and bottled water, he cleverly illustrates his points by portraying multiple characters, using simple props and comic stage tricks, all to help us question what we see and hear. Is it our gullibility or our complacency that needs another look?

The play opens with a large question mark scrawled across a black chalk board, a reoccurring theme. What we see and hear in life, might not be as we think. Truth becomes illusion. Mr. Dubac offers up some interesting twists on how to cure our societal schisms and make it all work. In one comical segment, he suggests that both political parties combine as one, so that they can achieve some funny compromises. For instance, continuing to ban prayers in our public schools except during exams, just when they might really help.

In the age of 3-D movies and computer generated imagery, this one man performance is refreshing, hilarious, poignant and sure to delight. Thank you Robert Dubac for an invitation for us to think outside the proverbial box.

The Rollins Theatre, at the Long Center, was the perfect venue, a comfortable and intimate setting.

We could all use a good laugh. Not to be missed! On now through January 15, 2012.

Blog by Lucas