The Charm of Classical Theater Arts: A Series of Events on Traditional Taiwanese Opera and Temple Culture
To promote traditional culture and the unique art of Taiwanese opera, National Chung Cheng University hosted a series of events from November 11 to November 16, 2024. Organized by the Department of Chinese Literature and co-hosted by the Taiwanese Literature Institute, Mazu Culture Research Center, Center for General Education, and Arts & Culture Center, the theme of these events was Taiwanese opera and temple culture. This initiative aimed to deepen participants' understanding of local culture and its significance in contemporary society. The series not only promoted the art of Taiwanese opera but also valued and preserved Taiwan's traditional culture. In today's rapidly globalizing context, traditional folk culture faces numerous challenges. Through these activities, we hoped to introduce more people to, help them understand, and encourage their appreciation for Taiwanese opera and traditional temple culture, thus fostering the sustainable development of traditional arts. We sincerely invited all students and individuals from various sectors to experience the vitality and charm of traditional art together!
Event Details:
I 、Sweat under the Stage, Glory above: The Dramatic Life of Sun Tsui-Feng
Date: November 11 (Monday)
As a prominent figure in Taiwanese opera, Professor Sun Tsui-Feng is the leading performer of the Ming Hwa Yuan Arts & Cultural Group. Renowned for her versatility in both singing and acting, she is affectionately known as "the daughter of the Patriarch." Since joining Ming Hwa Yuan in 1982, she has overcome health challenges to become a leading performer in the group, captivated by the experience of being on stage. In this lecture, she shared her personal life story in detail.
II 、Jhuluo Mountain Academic Seminar: Taiwanese Opera Performance - The Peach Banquet of the Queen Mother
Date: November 13 (Wednesday)
The performers were students enrolled in the course "Appreciation of Classic Taiwanese Operas and Stage Practices," presenting the classic Taiwanese opera, "The Peach Banquet of the Queen Mother." Traditionally celebrated on the third day of the third lunar month, the Queen Mother (Wang Mu) holds a grand banquet featuring peaches, inviting various immortals to celebrate her birthday at the Jade Pool. This type of performance is commonly seen in temple activities and is usually performed before the main show to purify the stage and invoke blessings. This performance not only showcased the students' learning outcomes but also reflected their creativity and passion, allowing the audience to experience the vibrancy of youth and the unique charm of Taiwanese opera.
III 、Jhuluo Mountain Studies Academic Seminar: Temple Culture Forum
Date: November 16 (Saturday)
The Jhuluo Mountain Studies seminar invited scholars and researchers from various regions to delve into the importance of temple culture in contemporary society. This seminar facilitated exchanges of opinions among scholars on temple culture, with presenters sharing their recent research findings, allowing participants to engage, learn, and collaborate with others.
