THE GENKI SPARK: TAIKO PROJECTS WITH ATTITUDE

THE GENKI SPARK is a multi-generational pan-Asian women’s arts and advocacy organization that uses taiko (Japanese drumming), creativity, and personal stories, to build community, develop leadership, and advocate respect for all. For centuries, taiko has played a prominent role in Japanese culture. Featured in everyday life, from cultural celebrations and religious ceremonies, to theater and dance productions this energetic and exciting art form has been highly developed and includes choreographed movement, voice, rhythm, and form. GENKI is a Japanese word that means "healthy, energetic, full of life!" WWII and the Japanese Internment experience silenced the Japanese and Japanese American communities (and all Asian communities arguably) in North America. Suddenly, being visibly Japanese/Asian was a burden. Young adult activists of the 70’s, refusing to hide, used the art of Japanese taiko drumming to build community, organize, and take center stage proudly and fiercely as Japanese and Asian Americans. THE GENKI SPARK conducts performances, speaking engagements, and interactive presentations for schools, cultural celebrations, community organizations, and social justice efforts reaching and estimated audience of 2 million people annually. Performances showcase our art with a message while our workshops dig deeper. Our 20+ members and guest artists range in age from 20-60+ represent a diversity of lifestyles and heritages throughout Asia from India to Cambodia, Japan to the Philippines, as well as immigrant, mixed heritage, US born, and adoptee constituencies.