Invited by the Auckland Arts Festival (AKL Fest), the renowned Taiwanese Ju Percussion Group (朱宗慶打擊樂團, JPG) made their New Zealand debut on Mar. 16.
The JPG remarked that the AKL Fest is the most iconic international arts festival in New Zealand. Shona McCullagh, the festival’s director, was invited to the Taiwan International Percussion Convention in May 2023. Impressed by the JPG’s outstanding performance at the event, she initiated a collaboration with the Taiwanese group.
Founded in 1948, the AKL Fest was on hiatus from 1982 to 2003. As one of the oldest art festivals in New Zealand, it emphasizes a connection with the indigenous people in New Zealand and interaction with the local community.
The JPG staged a show titled “Energy ∞ Infinite” on Mar. 16 at the Great Hall of the Auckland Town Hall. Additionally, the group was invited to perform at the Culture Beats program on the same day at Aotea Square in Auckland.
(Photo credit: Ju Percussion Group)