The critically acclaimed Wadaiko Yamato Drummers of Japan have performed all over the world, from Europe to Asia to South America. Where is their next stop? State College, of course.

Currently on their debut tour of the United States that began in Tucson, Ariz., on Oct. 18 and ends in Philadelphia on Nov. 11, the Wadaiko Yamato Drummers will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday in Eisenhower Auditorium.

Masaaki Ogawa founded Wadaiko Yamato in Nara, Japan, in 1993. Since then, the group has performed over 800 times across the globe. Producer Uriel Luft said the group was formed because the members "believe in drumming. It's a very exciting life and occupation."

The name of the group comes from the word for an ancient drum, Wadaiko, and the old name of Japan, "Yamato."

Ten drummers make up Wadaiko Yamato.

"One of the most interesting aspects of the group is that it includes both male and female drummers. Typically these groups were only comprised of male musicians," said Laura Sullivan, head of public relations for the Center for the Performing Arts.

The men and women of Wadaiko Yamato play drums that range in diameter from one to four feet and also play special kinds of guitars and harps in their performances. Their shows are not solely for the audience's aural pleasure, however.

"The whole performance is very visual," Luft said. "At times it is dramatic; at times it is funny."

The Wadaiko Yamato performances are not all fun and games for the drummers. This kind of drumming is "quite difficult and takes a lot of energy and strength," Luft said.

Through their drumming, the members of Wadaiko Yamato expose the audience to the traditions of the Japanese culture. They also try to convey a feeling of togetherness by encouraging audience involvement.

Luft said that the message of Wadaiko Yamato is a "very strong love of life and of being able to express what they feel and of giving happiness, energy, and spirit to the audience."

In the Eisenhower Auditorium Conference Room one hour before the Wadaiko Yamato performance, a program called Artistic Viewpoints is offered for ticket holders.

"The purpose is to have audience members learn more and get an insider's glimpse at the performance," said Amy Vashaw, director of Artistic Viewpoints and educational activities for the Center of the Performing Arts.

During Artistic Viewpoints, audience members will have the opportunity to ask Luft questions about the Wadaiko Yamato Drummers.

"It is interesting for people to see different cultures," Luft said. "Drumming varies across cultures. Wadaiko Yamato is very different."

Tickets are still available for the show and prices are $10 for University Park students, $20 for other students, $25 for the general public, and $13 for children 12 years old and younger.