Love, Peace and a Puppet Show: Taiwan Celebrates the Arts

Centred on the themes of Love and Peace, the Taiwan International Festival of Arts (TIFA) hit the scene in February this year drawing participants and visitors from all over the world in a celebration of culture and understanding.

Held in the National Theatre and National Concert Hall in Taipei, the celebration of the arts was dedicated in honour of the centenary of the Republic of China. With international acts from Belgium, Poland, Russia, the United States and more, the month long extravaganza of drama, music, dance and theatre that made up TIFA thrilled its domestic and international audience who flocked to Taiwan to be a part of the cultural event.

Once again, TIFA gave the world a chance to see the unique culture of Taiwan, with a particular highlight being the Huang Chun-hsiung TV Puppet Theatre with its classic budaixi (puppet show) ‘The Great Hero Yun-zhou: Su Yam-bwen the Ultimate Battle’ and the Taiwanese opera group’s fantasy drama, ‘Formosa – The Legendary Heaven’.

The Festival is the first of many international events to be held in Taiwan throughout 2011 as the Republic of China celebrates its 100th year since its establishment in 1911 when it became the first democratic nation in Asia. The island has been the home of the Republic of China since the civil war in 1949.

TIFA was launched in 2009 with themes of ‘crossing cultures’ featuring both original local productions and internationally acclaimed arts groups. The projects involved express the ability of art to transcend cultural and national borders, creating bonds and understanding between different peoples, hence the theme Love and Peace.

This year’s event barely over, preparations are already being made for the 2012 show, which promises to be bigger than ever. The busy month is a fantastic time to visit the island, as visitors can gain a unique cultural experience of Taiwan in an easily accessible and affordable way.