Four local arts groups are showcasing Taiwan’s rich creative performance pedigree until Aug. 25 at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, one of the largest events of its kind in the world.
Supported by the Ministry of Culture, the sixth Taiwan Season at the Fringe kicked off Aug. 2 at venues Dance Base and Summerhall. The lineup comprises B.Dance, Chang Dance Theatre and Dua Shin Te Production, as well as Shinehouse Theatre.
David Y. L. Lin, head of the Taipei Representative Office in the U.K, said Aug. 5 at a reception for the Taiwan Season that art is a universal language connecting the nation with the world. He also thanked the Fringe organizers and venues for their long-term support of the event.
Boasting a five-star review from U.K. media outlet Broadway Baby, “Floating Flowers” by B.Dance is inspired by a Buddhist ceremony that sets illuminated lanterns adrift on a river to symbolize people letting go of their worries and fears.
Another piece attracting critical acclaim is “Bout” by Chang Dance Theatre, which was highlighted as one of the 12 best shows at the festival by U.K. broadsheet The Guardian. The dance company’s latest work is inspired by movements in boxing.
Equally noteworthy is “Monster” by Dua Shin Te Production. Commissioned by Taipei City-based National Theater and Concert Hall, the modern dance piece delves into the ways people face their inner demons.
“Fish” by Shinehouse Theatre is the only drama piece in the season. It is adapted from a short novel by Taiwan author Huang Chun-ming, incorporating puppetry and sign language to tell the story of a grandfather and his grandson.
Launched in 1947, the Fringe this year features over 3,800 shows from a record 63 countries and territories across 320-plus venues. (CPY-E)
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