National Taiwan University of Arts’ Da-Guan Dance Theater kicked off a 14-day tour of South and Southeast Asia July 23 with a performance at the Azad Bhavan Auditorium in New Delhi.
Organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the tour is part of the 2017 New Southbound Policy Dance Arts Cultural Exchange Program, which aims to boost bilateral ties and foster cultural exchanges with key partners under the government’s people-centric New Southbound Policy.
Before the performance, Tien Chung-kwang, representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India, said that such events can facilitate mutual understanding. He added that he hopes audiences and the performers seize the opportunity to connect and exchange knowledge of each other’s cultures.
Shri Vanlalhuma, deputy director-general of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, noted that Taiwan and India have a history of robust artistic and cultural exchanges. He said he looks forward to more such activities in the future.
Presenting a repertoire themed Splendor of Taiwan, the dance troupe performed 14 pieces featuring glove puppetry, modern dance, traditional Chinese folk dance and choreography from Taiwan’s indigenous tribes. During the show, the troupe explored a wide range of subject matter such as the Taiwan people’s relationship with nature as well as Taoist temple festivals and philosophy.
Following its show in New Delhi, the 15-member troupe is scheduled to perform in Chennai July 25-27; Jakarta, Indonesia, July 28 to Aug. 1; and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Aug. 2-5. While on the tour, the dance theater will also take the opportunity to visit cultural heritage sites as well as various organizations and universities, according to the MOFA.
Established in 2005 under NTUA’s Department of Dance, the troupe has performed all over the world. Its performances draw from various sources and techniques, integrating drama, fine arts, music and multimedia applications to showcase diverse Eastern and Western cultures. (CPY-E)
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