The thunder of drums will fill Eisenhower Auditorium tonight when traditional Japanese taiko drum ensemble Kodo performs.

Kodo's performance, presented by the Center for the Performing Arts (CPA), begins at 7:30 at the Eisenhower Auditorium. Tickets are $20 for University Park students, $37 for adults and $24 for children under 18 years old.

CPA Director George Trudeau said Kodo's performance is the culmination of his efforts to bring the ensemble to Penn State.

"I've been working since I became director in 2004 to bring Kodo here," Trudeau said.

Trudeau added he saw Kodo perform 10 years ago and he's been a fan ever since.

"They are considered the top taiko drumming ensemble in the world," he said, referring to the group's use of the taiko drum, a large, wooden Japanese drum.

Since the group's debut in 1981, Kodo has become the world's most respected Japanese drum ensemble, performing more than 3,100 times across five continents, according to CPA's Web site.

"They play everything from tiny drums to a 900-pound monster made out of the trunk of a single tree," Trudeau said.

Laura Sullivan, director of marketing and communications for CPA, said that the highlight of Kodo's drum performance is the giant o-daiko drum they use.

"It's so huge that it takes two people to play it," Sullivan said.

Trudeau said Kodo's performance extends far beyond music, encompassing elements of theatrical performance, dance and spirituality. The rigors of being in the group require its members to prepare thoroughly.

"They train day in and day out to be in top physical and mental shape," Trudeau said.

Both Trudeau and Sullivan said Kodo's performance is a spiritual one, with a focus on the earth and nature. Sullivan added the beating of the heart is one example of nature's influence on Kodo's music. In fact, Kodo can mean "heartbeat" and "children of the drum."

Despite the group's traditional roots, Kodo also has made some progressive changes.

"They have started to incorporate some female drummers," Sullivan said.

Trudeau said ticket sales have been strong, adding he expects a large student turnout.

"We've gotten a great response," Trudeau said. "I believe our ticket sales are approaching 2,000."

By: Andrew Steadman