The historic Presidential Office Building in Taipei City is set to take center stage in a series of cultural shows planned as part of ROC Double Tenth National Day celebrations. (CNA)
A series of innovative cultural events and a projection show commencing Oct. 7 are set to add extra color to this year’s Republic of China (Taiwan) Double Tenth National Day celebrations at the Office of the President in Taipei City.
The cultural events include a “liam kua” performance by celebrated yueqin player and winner of the 2007 National Awards for Arts, Yang Xiu-qing. Considered a precursor to Taiwanese opera, the form of storytelling interweaves talking and singing and derives its name from Holo—the language of the largest ethnic group in Taiwan.
Continuing the local theme, a rousing rendition of some of Taiwan’s finest folk songs will be delivered by string ensemble One Song Orchestra. In addition, two theater performances featuring clowns from local art troupe Theatre de la Sardine are scheduled in conjunction with Taipei City Government’s Nuit Blanche—the metropolis’s biggest art festival in recent years.
Equally impressive is the first-ever projection show illuminating the facade of the historic Presidential Office Building. Organized by Taipei-based General Association of Chinese Culture, the production is titled “Praying for an Auspicious Celebration” and will take place every 30 minutes from 7:30 p.m. to 9:50 p.m.
Show director Agi Chen said the culturally diverse and vibrant show stars Teng Yun, or Cloud Rider, Taiwan’s first steam engine. The train is set to transport viewers on a colorful journey through the nation’s 106-year history replete with contemporary interpretations of Holo and indigenous songs, she added.
The cultural events and mapping show are part of a program of activities running until Oct. 10 nationwide. Highlights include President Tsai Ing-wen’s National Day Address and a 36-minute fireworks extravaganza and projection show featuring hot air balloons in eastern Taiwan’s Taitung County. (CPY-E)
