Somei Yoshino Taiko Ensemble (SYTE) was founded in 1999 to explore and develop works that incorporate taiko (Japanese drumming) with other types of performance art. Named after one of the most beautiful cherry blossom trees in Japan, Somei Yoshino Taiko Ensemble is inspired to balance the sensitive and elegant aspects of taiko playing with the strong and powerful. SYTE brings a new perspective to the art of taiko by focusing on modern compositions and visual motifs that step outside of the mainstream.

The Polynesian cultural dance group Hui Hula o na Pu'u i ka Noe (Hula group of the hills in the mist), established by Kalena Gregory, present a repertoire of Hawaiian hula, as well as Tahitian, Maori, Samoan and other Pacific island dances.

In addition to SYTE and HHP, other performers will include Oldawan, the Yonemura Jazz Ensemble, and Dii Lewis & Lorin Kagehiro, this year's masters of ceremonies and members of the Berkeley Buddhist Temple. more …

Schedule of performances on Sunday, May 18