Taiwanese Opera Figure Backs Mayoral Candidate Su Chiao-hui
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Chen Zhaoxian, a third-generation member of the Ming Hwa Yuan Taiwanese opera troupe, endorsed New Taipei mayoral candidate Su Chiao-hui.
- Chen praised Su's dedication to local culture and children's arts, highlighting her thoughtful approach during a past collaboration.
- Both women are seen as new-generation leaders committed to cultural heritage and supporting the next generation.
Chen Zhaoxian, a prominent figure in Taiwan's traditional opera scene and a third-generation member of the renowned Ming Hwa Yuan troupe, has publicly endorsed Su Chiao-hui, a candidate for New Taipei mayor.
I am very much looking forward to Chiao-hui being able to go further and become our support.
Chen, who also leads the "Wind God Babies Children's Theater," expressed her support in a recent social media video. She highlighted her long-standing acquaintance with Su, noting their shared commitment to promoting local culture and children's arts. As a representative of the "new generation" in the arts, Chen feels a strong resonance with Su, believing they both carry the responsibility of preserving and passing on Taiwan's artistic and cultural heritage.
Recalling a collaboration on a children's play in 2017, Chen shared an anecdote that illustrated Su's considerate nature. When presented with the performance costs, Su's immediate concern was not about discounts but whether Chen and her team would face undue hardship. This empathy, Chen stated, is a rare quality in the industry.
Chiao-hui's eyes are truly sparkling, I think that is truly love for children.
Both women are dedicated to enriching the next generation's artistic experiences and fostering a deeper understanding of Taiwan's stories. Chen also noted their shared commitment to storytelling for children, with Su having produced over 300 episodes of her "Otter Mama Tells Stories" podcast. Chen, who hosts her own podcast, "Wind God Babies Tells Stories," acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining such a commitment amidst busy schedules, recognizing Su's dedication as a testament to her love for children.
This is a rare thoughtfulness in the industry, asking 'Will you and your team be very tired with this scale and cost?'
Chen sees herself and Su as new-generation leaders following in the footsteps of their accomplished parents. She acknowledged the immense pressure and the need to exert double the effort to prove themselves, but believes this shared drive and sense of mission motivate them to excel. Chen concluded by expressing her strong anticipation for Su to become a powerful supporter for everyone.
Both Chen Zhaoxian and Su Chiao-hui are working hard, hoping to give the next generation more artistic nourishment and a better understanding of Taiwan's stories.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.