NBPL release – Saturday, July 22 Portland’s Japanese drum and dance ensemble Takohachi will offer a performance beginning at noon at the Mingus Park Amphitheatre. Learn more about Japanese culture through music and dance at a family friendly event featuring taiko drums, Tsugaru Shamisen, Shinobue Bamboo Flute and more. In the case of rain, the event will be held at the Coos Bay Fire Department at 450 Elrod Avenue in Coos Bay. Takohachi was founded in 2007 as a non-profit organization to preserve traditional Japanese music and dance. Takohachi seeks to educate and entertain as they perform throughout the Northwest at schools, festivals and cultural events. Under the leadership of Yumi Torimaru the Takohachi has evolved into a multi-faceted Japanese cultural and musical organization that partners with many artists and musicians based both in Portland and Japan. The event is part of the Coos Bay Public Library’s annual Summer Reading Program. During the summer, the Library offers both a reading challenge and programming for all ages which encourage people to read, learn, connect and find their voice. Beginning June 19 and continuing through August 19, participants of any age can participate in the summer reading bingo challenge, earning badges and entry into prize drawings. Participants who register will get a special prize for entering. This year, people can participate either online or using a paper bingo sheet. Challenge registration is available on the Library’s website or at the Coos Bay Public Library. For more information on Summer Reading activities or the Reading Challenge, visit the Coos Bay Public Library’s website at www.coosbaylibrary.org, call (541) 269-1101 x 3606 or email Jennifer Knight at jknight@coosbaylibrary.org.
