Netizens rally behind Chen Hsing-yu, mock 'faithless husband'; Ming Hwa Yuan troupe clarifies stance

Chen Hsing-yu, daughter of former Taiwanese President Chen Shui-bian, has garnered significant online support after publicly accusing her ex-husband, Chao Chien-ming, of infidelity and maintaining multiple affairs after their marriage. Her candidness has resonated with many netizens, leading to a viral social media movement.

“

As a member of the Ming Hwa Yuan family, we deeply cherish and appreciate the attention and every performance invitation from all sectors.

A campaign on the platform Threads proposes organizing an "Axe Beauty Festival," a symbolic event to support Chen. The proposed program includes traditional Taiwanese opera performances of classic plays such as "Bao Gong Executes the驸马" (Lord Bao Executes the Son-in-Law), "Unfaithful Man," and "Chen Shih-mei's Treachery," which all carry moral lessons about infidelity and betrayal.

The burgeoning online discussion has led to speculation that the renowned Ming Hwa Yuan traditional opera troupe might participate. However, the troupe has issued statements to address the rumors. Ming Hwa Yuan's main troupe stated they had not received any invitation to perform.

“

We believe that the value of traditional Gezai opera and classic repertoire lies in bringing spiritual comfort, positive inspiration, and warm social strength to the audience.

Meanwhile, the Ming Hwa Yuan Tian Zi troupe released a separate statement emphasizing their commitment to professional evaluation of performances. They stressed that their artistic decisions are based on the value and positive spirit of traditional Taiwanese opera, rather than using performances for temporary sensationalism. The Tian Zi troupe, established in 1983 and led by Chen Sheng-tien, has a long history of performing traditional Gezai opera, blending modern theatrical concepts.

“

Regarding the planning of various performances and repertoire presentation, the team will conduct strict evaluations with a professional spirit. We attach the greatest importance to how to fully present the artistic value and positive spirit of the opera itself, rather than using the performance as a tool for temporary topical hype.