Jin Kwei Lo Puppetry Company is showcasing its well-known production “The Potion of Reincarnation” March 3 and 4 at the 2023 Festival de Casteliers in Canada, spotlighting the vibrancy of Taiwan’s performing arts sector, according to the Ministry of Culture.
Art directed by master puppeteer Chiang Szu-mei with Cheng Chia-yin as stage director, the show weaves together the stories of three classic female characters from traditional Chinese opera—Bai Su-zhen, Pan Jin-lian and Wang Bao-chuan—and their encounters with Lady Meng, a figure from Chinese mythology who ensures souls’ readiness for reincarnation by inducing them to forget their previous lives.
In addition, the company co-hosted a workshop with the Quebec Association of Puppeteers for local theater actors, puppeteers, teachers and puppet makers, the MOC said, adding that the event is expected to facilitate relevant cultural exchanges between Taiwan and Canada.
According to the MOC, the troupe has participated in multiple international art events over the past few years, helping introduce the beauty of Taiwan’s traditional puppetry to global audiences. It was also featured at France’s Festival Off Avignon and World Festival of Puppet Theatres in 2018 and 2019, respectively, the ministry added.
The 18th edition of the Festival de Casteliers takes place March 1-5 and features works from Belgium, Canada, France and the Czech Republic. (YCH-E)
Write to Taiwan Today at ttonline@mofa.gov.tw