Taiwan’s highest creative prize, the National Cultural Award, was granted to puppet master Chen Hsi-huang and percussionist Ju Tzong-ching, according to the Ministry of Culture Feb. 22.
Chen, a traditional glove puppeteer, cut his teeth in New Wan Jan Puppet Theater, which he founded in Taipei City in 1953. He is responsible for many classics of the genre, including 2001 productions “Marco Polo” and “The Wedding of the Mice” made in collaboration with Taipei-based Taiyuan Puppet Theatre Company.
Winner of a national cultural heritage preservation award in 2012, 90-year-old Chen was also honored by the MOC for being a guardian of glove puppetry in 2009, as well as for his use of the art form’s classical clothing and headwear in 2011.
Ju, who in 1982 became the first Taiwan musician to earn a diploma of music performance in percussion from the University of Music and Performing Arts, Vienna, is known for his tireless efforts popularizing percussive sounds. He founded Taipei-based Ju Percussion Group in 1986 and Taiwan International Percussion Convention in 1993.
The 65-year-old was director of National Performing Arts Center in Taipei from 2001 to 2004, during which he transformed it into the country’s first independent administrative corporation. He is now NPAC chairman having returned to the institution in 2017.
Minister of Culture Cheng Li-chiun said the award is deserved recognition for Chen and Ju’s outstanding achievements and contributions to local culture. Their lifelong dedication to promoting traditional and performing arts and raising Taiwan’s international profile is deeply appreciated, she added.
Established in 1980, the NCA is organized by the Cabinet and MOC. This year’s winners each received a certificate, medallion and NT$1 million (US$32,808) in prize money. (YCH-E)
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