Gardena-based group Ryukyukoku Matsuri Daiko Los Angeles (RMDLA) is proud to celebrate 30 years of spreading the Okinawan spirit across Southern California and beyond. To commemorate this milestone, the group will host a special anniversary show entitled “Chimugukuru nu Utu – Sound of Spirit” on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and free on-site parking will be available. Tickets are available online now for $30 at www.bit.ly/rmdla30 and will also be sold at the door, subject to availability. Seating is general admission on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Chimugukuru nu Utu – Sound of Spirit” embodies the heartfelt energy and deep soul that eisaa represents. This dynamic program will feature members from RMD branches around the world, including Okinawa, Hawai‘i, Peru, Boston, Ohio, Mie, and Aichi Prefecture, along with special guest performers Majikina Aigen no Kai and Afuso Ryu Choichi Kai. With festive costumes, powerful drumming, and theatrical lighting, the evening promises to be a moving and unforgettable celebration of Okinawan culture.
Ryukyukoku Matsuri Daiko, which translates to “Ryukyu Kingdom Festival Drums,” was founded in Okinawa in 1982. Today, branches exist across mainland Japan, Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Hawai‘i, and the United States. The Los Angeles branch was established in 1995 and has since become a beacon of cultural pride and resilience, preserving the vibrant Okinawan art of eisaa—a traditional Obon festival drum dance—while blending it with karate movements and both traditional and contemporary music.
For the past three decades, RMDLA has performed at iconic venues and community celebrations, including Dodger Stadium, Anime Expo, Nisei Week, U.S.–Japan Expo, the Monterey Park Cherry Blossom Festival, Torrance Sister City Bunka-Sai, the L.A. County Fair, and more. Members have also represented Los Angeles at international RMD events in Okinawa and Latin America.
Through challenges such as the pandemic and changing times, RMDLA’s passion for eisaa has kept spirits strong. The rhythms, movements, and cultural roots of this art form continue to serve as a source of comfort, hope, and inspiration—not only for members but for the wider community. This 30th anniversary show will honor everyone who has supported the group over the years while inspiring the next generation to carry forward the spirit of Okinawa.
Event Details
📍 Location: Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90278
📅 Date/Time: Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. (Doors open 5:30 p.m.)
🎟️ Tickets: $30 general admission at www.bit.ly/rmdla30 or at the door (subject to availability)
🚗 Parking: Free on-site parking
For more information, to make a donation, or to become a sponsor, please email rmd.losangeles@gmail.com or visit www.rmdlosangeles.com.
