Wei Hai-min Wins Best Actress at Golden Melody Awards for Traditional Arts

The 37th Golden Melody Awards for Traditional Arts and Music celebrated outstanding achievements in Taiwan's traditional performing arts. The ceremony, held at the National Traditional Arts Center's Grand Performance Hall in Taipei, honored recipients across 19 categories, including special awards. Minister of Culture Li Yung attended to pay tribute to traditional arts practitioners and the judging panel, presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award to Manzhou folk artist Chang Jui-kuei and Lutan opera artist Wang Ching-fang.

This year's awards saw a significant increase in submissions, with 780 entries, up 150 from the previous year, reflecting the vibrant creative energy in traditional arts. The competition for Best Actor was particularly fierce, featuring renowned opera stars. Ultimately, Jingju (Peking Opera) actress Wei Hai-min secured the Best Actress award for her compelling performance as Empress Dowager Cixi in the play "The Queen's Name" by the Shakespeare's Sisters Theater Company.

“

The times are changing, and the appearance of opera is also changing. The Empress Dowager Cixi I portrayed was an important promoter of Peking Opera development at the time, allowing opera to extend to all regions.

Upon receiving her award, a visibly emotional Wei Hai-min noted it was her first Golden Melody win in 18 years, humorously comparing the wait to the legendary tale of Wang Baochuan. She thanked director Wang Chia-ming for his moving interpretation of Empress Dowager Cixi's story, which allowed her creative freedom. Wei emphasized the evolving nature of opera and the importance of cultural support for traditional arts to shine on the international stage, highlighting Cixi's role in promoting Peking Opera's development.

The Best Young Actor award recognized emerging talent, with Zhang Xin-yi of the Pai Yu Tso troupe winning for her role in "Dark Night Flower Fragrance Comes." Due to a prior performance commitment, Zhang's acceptance speech was read by the ceremony's host. She expressed gratitude for the award and the support of her troupe, crediting her stage experience for her ability to embody characters. Zhang also thanked the Golden Melody Awards for accompanying her through two major surgeries, cherishing the happiness the award brought.

“

I am truly grateful for the judges' affirmation and the troupe's support all along. Years of stage experience allow me to interpret every role in my best state. I also thank the Golden Melody Awards for accompanying me through the test of two major surgeries. I will cherish this happiness and joy in the future.