Research & Prospect Management Visits the PAC for a High Energy Drum Tao Performance

On February 6, the Research and Prospect Management (RPM) team set out on another campus adventure to the UGA Performing Arts Center (PAC). At 10:00 a.m., the lobby was buzzing with excitement as school groups from Athens and surrounding communities poured in. They were all there for a special daytime performance by Drum Tao, the world renowned Japanese ensemble celebrated for its electrifying blend of large scale taiko drumming, dynamic choreography, and traditional Japanese melodies.

What set this particular show apart from the evening performance was its audience. This event was part of the PAC’s Performances for Young People, a program designed to introduce K–12 students to the arts through culturally rich, live experiences on campus. It’s a chance for young people to engage with the arts in a meaningful, immediate way. This performance proved just how impactful that exposure can be.

As the lights dimmed, the chatter softened, and the musicians took their places behind massive taiko drums. It didn’t take long before the deep, resonant rhythms had students swaying, clapping, and dancing in their seats. Drum Tao’s infectious energy and playful humor kept the kids constantly engaged. At one point, a performer stepped forward to share a bit about Japanese culture. He reminded the students that, thanks to pop culture, they might already know more than they realize.

Near the finale, several children were invited onstage to join the troupe for one last exhilarating number. Guided by the musicians, the kids drummed with every emotion the artists called for—excitement, anger, love—bringing the audience to life with laughter and cheers. Before their final bow, the performers encouraged everyone to get up and move along with them. And that they did!

After the show, our team met with Carlton Bain, Development Coordinator for the Performing Arts Center, who emphasized the crucial role philanthropy plays in making programs like this possible. Donor support and sponsorships are essential to the PAC’s ability to offer programs like Performances for Young People, ensuring that thousands of students can experience high quality arts programming each year. Simply put, without this generosity, these performances couldn’t happen.

Attending this show served as a powerful reminder of the impact philanthropic giving has on our community—at UGA, in Athens, and far beyond!