Unexpectedly invited to 'Quashing Beauty Art Festival,' Xiouqin Opera Troupe says: 'We perform when there's a stage, we sing when there's an audience'

The Xiouqin Opera Troupe has announced its participation in the "Quashing Beauty Art Festival," a grassroots event that emerged from online discussions surrounding a high-profile political family's marital issues. The troupe is set to perform a new production titled "Lin Tou Jie Captures Zhou Asi Alive" on September 22.

In a Facebook post, the troupe shared their feelings about the unexpected invitation. They expressed their core desire: to use traditional Taiwanese opera, or "gezaixi," to bring the stories of Tainan to life on stage. This initiative aims to foster greater understanding of Tainan and its cultural heritage among a wider audience.

"We are actors; we perform when there is a stage, and we sing when there is an audience," the troupe stated. They affirmed their dedication to their craft, emphasizing that they will pour their energy into every performance, especially when supported by those who cherish traditional opera. Their commitment remains strong as long as there is appreciation and support for this art form.

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We are actors; we perform when there is a stage, and we sing when there is an audience.

The troupe highlighted that this new production is entirely original. They plan to present the story in their most familiar and beloved style, ensuring a compelling performance for attendees. They invited fans of Tainan's stories and supporters of traditional opera to join them, encouraging a collective effort to "keep a light on for gezaixi."

Xiouqin Opera Troupe, while deeply rooted in Tainan, holds significant recognition within Taiwan's traditional opera scene. They have been a supported team by the National Culture and Arts Foundation's "Taiwan Top" program for over two decades. The troupe's leader, Zhang Xiuqin, was honored with the Cultural Merit Medal by the Ministry of Culture in 2023 and was named an honorary citizen of Tainan that same year, solidifying her status as a key representative of Tainan's traditional performing arts.

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If you like Tainan's stories and are willing to support traditional opera, you are welcome to come watch the show. Let us meet under the stage, watch the show together, listen to stories together, and keep a light on for gezaixi together.