Panis has been involved in the study of traditional Japanese drum dancing for about 5 years and travels annually to perform in the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C. Imajin Matsuri Taiko drum dancing was traditionally a style of dance performed by men. A big drum is suspended from a purple sash and banged in rhythm while the drummer dances in Karate inspired moves. The banging of the drum represents happiness and joy but is also used in ceremonies to wake the dead to celebrate life. In recent years, drum dancing has become very popular with young people.