Kodo

After 30 years of virulent tub-thumping, Japan's most famous taiko drumming ensemble are due for a makeover next year, as they usher in kabuki star Tamasaburo Bando to act as their first-ever artistic director. Prior to that, they'll be wrapping up their anniversary year with a national tour that takes in a string of dates in Tokyo before finishing at their home base on Sado Island. If you've never seen this group before, prepare to be amazed.