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	<title>國立傳統藝術中心入口網</title>
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			http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/main/index.aspx
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<title>“2008 Taiwanese Folk Art Exhibition ” Series- Constable from the Hell (陰司捕快)- “Eight Generals”</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD01Nw==</link>
<pubDate>2008/11/17</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ NCTA is currently holding an exhibition of “2008 Taiwanese Folk Art Exhibition” with the theme of the temple culture of Taiwan, which comprises main categories of: Taoist ritual and folk parade. God Generals, Emperor’s Chariot (鑾駕), Twelve Grannies Parade (十二婆姐陣), Song-jiang Parade, Golden Lion Parade and Eight Generals Parade are included in the parade exhibition. The Eight Generals parade is the most well known of the parade, nonetheless, only a small number of people able are to list the complete names, titles, duties and responsibilities of the Eight Generals. 

“Eight Generals” has always been the crucial highlight of the general temple events and plays an important role of leading the way, controlling and keeping the order. The generals wear helmets, straw shoes and the Taoist wardrobe, with a fan in one hand and the Taoist ritual instruments in another. They walk with the strange swaggering steps, along with their colorful facial mask-like make up and the glaring angry eyes, they seem very self-assurance and dignified, and that creates a rather dramatic and terrific impact. Eight Generals conveys ingenious artistic expression and vibrant characteristics and, at the same time, helps to avert disasters and misfortunes, and fend off evils spirits. “Eight Generals” has an extremely vital and irreplaceable importance in the world of folk parade. 

The Chengshan Temple in Sanwujia of Jiali Township, Tainan County provided costumes, props, masks and other artifacts of “Eight Generals” to exhibit at the 2008 Taiwan Folk Art Exhibition. “Eight Generals” of Chengshan Temple was established in 1916 and has the folk parade of a significant long history in the Southern Taiwan. They are often invited to perform at the various large scale temple events in Southern Taiwan. “2008 Taiwan Folk Art Exhibition” will be exhibited from today until December 21, 2008 at the NCTA Exhibition Center. The operation hours are from 9am till 6pm daily and closed on every Monday from 9m till 12am. For those who are interested, please grab the opportunity and come and learn more about the temple culture. 
<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/1546296164010_A.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="傳習二館黃瀅權創作許多大小不一的恐龍（陳衍吟攝）">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/4274296164010_B.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="來自羅東的林郁軒小朋友有幸獲得黃老師親手製作的恐龍（陳衍吟攝）">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/9544296164010_C.jpg" border="0" width="240" height="159" alt="紙管吊橋很受小朋友喜愛（陳衍吟攝）">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/4745296164010_D.jpg" border="0" width="240" height="159" alt="大朋友可以帶著小朋友到恐龍故事館體驗（陳衍吟攝）">]]></description>
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<title>“2008 Taiwan Folk Art Exhibition” Series- Fun Acting Out Traditional Folk Art “Exciting Experience of the Aquatic Parade </title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD01Ng==</link>
<pubDate>2008/11/17</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The Taiwanese Folk Art Exhibition of this year of NCTA is presenting the most unique local flavor of the folk parade – the Aquatic Parade (水族陣) series, currently exhibiting at the NCTA Center No.3. During the event, Rong-chuan Lin, a senior local craftsman of Yilan was especially invited to perform and demonstrate at the scene. The students of Dongshan Elementary School have gained an insightful understanding about the forms of performance and cultural significance, as well as experienced the fun of taking part and dressing up as the Aquatic Parade (水族陣), to experience the joy and excitement of the festive atmosphere of the olden days. 

Teacher Jung-chun Lin demonstrated and performed the role “Clam” live. With the repertoire “Siphon Extrude from the Clam”, teacher Jung-chun Lin sat on the floor with legs crossed, while leaning backward with one leg kicked out from the shell. The way he imitated clam extruding its siphon immediately drew the attention of the students. With the repertoire “Clam Sneaks Away”, teacher Jung-chun Lin has his back facing the audience, slowly but surely showed his hip with his arms opened and then closed slightly, followed by the comical motions of moving from left and right, and forward and backward. Not to mention the repertoire “Clam Peeps”, commonly known as “Clam Peeps at People”, which portrays the way a clam sneaks out for some fresh air. In order to perform this repertoire, he is required to crouch as low as possible to first stealthily close the clam’s shell, and sticks gradually sticks his head out from the shell. Together with his facial expression, he has successfully captured the fine details of the quick glance and added more drama to the play. Each and every grade 2 student of Dongshan Elementary School was completely drawn into the vibrancy and excitement of the traditional art and performance. Other participating children also found it extremely fascinating and entertaining. All of them have learned the skills very attentively during the demonstration and managed to perform the Aquatic Parade (水族陣) right away for “Fun Acting out Traditional Folk Art”. This marked the excitement of this excursion and, at the same time, provided the experience of real fun of traditional folk art. 
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<title>High-mountain Folksongs with Traditional Instruments from Pangsiw Artistic Group of Madukayan Tribe in the Northern Philippines</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD00OQ==</link>
<pubDate>2008/11/3</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ In order to let Taiwanese citizens understand more about the characteristics of Filipino musical culture, the “Asia-Pacific Traditional Arts Festival 2008 (APTAF 2008)” organized by the Preparatory Office of the National Headquarters of Taiwan Traditional Arts will present during October 10 to October 12 “the Pangsiw Artistic Group of the Madukayan Tribe” from the mountainous area in northern Philippines. In addition to their local folk dances and music, musicians of the group will show you how to make their instruments and play them right before your eyes at the Fantastic Sounds from the Land of the Philippines—“An Exhibition on the Traditional Instruments of the Philippines and Its Neighboring Countries 2008”.
Due to the latitude and climatic conditions, bamboos are seen everywhere in the mountainous areas in the northern Philippines. This explains why bamboo is the major material for local musical instruments and the development of a musical culture of bamboo instruments in the area.
The “Pangsiw Artistic Group of the Madukayan Tribe” is one of the mountain tribes in northern Luzon. Members of the group are from the Pangsiws of the Madukayan Tribe living in the high-mountain province. Besides farming, music is the cohesive activity of the Pangsiws. The bamboo instruments used by the group include the balingbing, a split-bamboo or bamboo buzzer; the kolintong, a six-stringed bamboo tube zither; the parading, an end-blown flute; the tongali, a nose flute; and the onnat, a jaw’s harp. 
If you want to see more interesting traditional Filipino musical instruments, you must visit the Fantastic Sounds from the Land of the Philippines—“An Exhibition of the Traditional Instruments of Philippines and Its Neighboring Countries 2008” held from now on until October 31. On October 10 to October 12, and on October 18 and October 19, two instrument making workshops and performances are arranged everyday at the National Center for Traditional Arts. Come and join us!

<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/8423288102245_A.jpg" border="0" width="169" height="240" alt="">]]></description>
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<title>Fantastic Sounds from the Land of the Philippines—An Exhibition of the Traditional Instruments of the Philippines and Its Neighboring Countries Begins Today!</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD00OA==</link>
<pubDate>2008/11/3</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ In the name of WOW Philippines! and with assistance from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office of the Philippines, the Asia-Pacific Traditional Arts Festival 2008 (APTAF 2008) will begin in hustle and bustle on October 10 for a period of ten days. Elite performing groups of traditional arts and craft artists are invited to give performances and demonstrations at the festival to let citizens understand more about the Filipino cultural character and artistic temperament.

The NCFTA began organizing the APTAF in 2000, and this our seventh year. Over the past six festivals, we have invited performing groups and artists from 20 neighboring countries and regions to join the event, and we continue to invite excellent performing groups from Asia-Pacific to stage performances at the festival. With our accumulated success, the APTAF has become a platform for cultural and artistic exchange in the Asia-Pacific region. To mark out the characteristics of the traditional arts of the thematic country, the Philippines, for the festival of this year, we have organized  the Fantastic Sounds from the Land of the Philippines—“An Exhibition of the Traditional Instruments of Philippines and Its Neighboring Countries 2008” in order to present the universality and differences in traditional music of Southeast Asian countries through the comparison and contrast of musical instruments from the Philippines and its neighboring countries, such as Thailand, Burma and Vietnam, and Taiwan. Materials presented in photos; i.e. photos of ensembles and musical groups from northern, central and southern Philippines are compared with photos of ensembles and musical groups of other countries. There is also an exhibition of major traditional musical instruments for ensembles of the Philippines and its neighboring countries. The exhibition is held on the 2/F of NCFTA during October 4-October 31. If you want to see the traditional music instruments of the Philippines and its neighboring countries, do not miss this chance!
<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/1702283152433_A.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="20071010台灣紙藝大展開幕\合切60吋紙蛋糕揭示「2007台灣紙藝大展」盛大開幕（陳衍吟攝）">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/9416283152434_B.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="蘭陽青年會表演紙扇舞（陳衍吟攝）">]]></description>
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<title>Competition of Taiwanese Deity Figurines (dua-xian-una-xian-bia-xian) breaks out this November 1-2</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD01NQ==</link>
<pubDate>2008/10/31</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The National Center for Traditional Arts (NCFTA) has planned the Taiwanese Figurines activity for this November. In addition to the traditional deity figurine competition (bian-xian), traditional virgin-boy parade combining rock ‘n roll, ragtime, and hip-hop, which is quite popular in modern temple fairs, will appear. After local deity figurine groups in Yilan start the deity figurine competition (bian-xian) on November 1, other forms of temple fairs, such as the “traditional deity blessing tour”, “electric guitar sam-tai-zu”, and the “tale of deity figurines”, will be presented at the NCFTA every weekend evening. These activities have added modern elements to traditional rituals.
In Taiwanese temple fairs, gigantic figurines often stride in front of the deity’s sedan and swing and shake their hands along with the rhythm of the ceremonial music. In fact, Taiwanese figurine parades are the most attractive part and the most popular “idols” in local temple fairs. Such figurines, often in the form of deities, have different names in different parts of Taiwan. For example, they are known as the “dua-xian-un-a-din” (deity figurine parade) in central and northern Taiwan, but are called the “deity idol” or “deity figurine” in southern Taiwan; and the “dun-a-din” (virgin body parade) is more colloquial to locals.
The “Xinyi and Taizu clubs of Dongyeu Temple” and “Wangye Club of Sanxingzhong Temple” in Yilan will be invited to the “Competition of Taiwanese Deity Figurines” (dua-xian-una-xian-bia-xian) held this weekend (November 1-2). Through a large parade, deity worship, parade competition, and the support of the sensational ceremonial music, the captivating deity figurine culture of Taiwan is fully displayed. When beiguan followers “challenged other groups”(pinguan) in early Yilan, they used the deity figurines at the head of the parade to mark out the identity of their groups and attract the attention of others. This is how the deity figurine competition culture formed. The custom has been followed since then and has become an important event for celebrating the birthday of deity worshipping in temples.
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<title>Lanterns from Chinese Paintings</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD01NA==</link>
<pubDate>2008/10/31</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The National Center for Traditional Arts (NCFTA) has planned a series of folk activities for this season of the Exhibition of Folk Arts in Taiwan 2008. An exquisite Lantern Exhibition held at the Traditional Handicraft Artists’ Studio V displayed works made by Yu-zhu Lin, founder of the Chinese Artistic Lantern Association, and prisoners of Yilan Prison. These works based on peacocks and birds were favored by the public. 
In early Taiwan, as people made the frame of traditional lanterns with bamboo strips, the creation was restricted by the availability and convenience of materials. Therefore, Lin embarked on the research and reform of materials for making lanterns since 1979. She began using iron wires wrapped with paper to replace bamboo stripes to make the frame. This way, people could learn how to make a lantern more easily. In fact, thanks to her efforts lantern works have attracted a greater public. Lin has studied art and Chinese painting, so she integrates Chinese painting to lantern making. The flowers, birds, pines, and peacocks on her lanterns were all her own creations and look live walking out from the lanterns. Her devotion not only earned her countless awards but also opportunities to display her works at home and abroad. In fact, she has been invited by various educational institutions, artistic groups and local prisons to give classes on lantern making and to promote folk art.
At this Lantern Exhibition, prisoners of Yilan Prison were also invited to display their works. Yilan Prison has made lanterns for more than a decade, and is committed to the research and development of lantern making in order to introduce various novel lanterns. In fact, the artistry of lantern making of Yilan Prison has surpassed the professional level!
<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/8483291214250_A.jpg" border="0" width="240" height="159" alt="游政達與作品幻紫謎蝶(陳衍吟攝)">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/5440291214251_B.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="游政達與作品驚世皇權（陳衍吟攝）">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/4940291214251_C.jpg" border="0" width="240" height="174" alt="游政達調整展示櫃內作品神情專注（陳衍吟攝）">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/9141291214251_D.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="游政達作品細膩生動（陳衍吟攝）">]]></description>
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<title>The Largest Ceremony in the Southern Taiwan – the Ceremony of the King Boat</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD01Mw==</link>
<pubDate>2008/10/27</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Donglung Temple, Sanliao Bay of Beimen Township in Tainan County has provided the models of King Boat Ceremony, which will be showcased at the Taiwan folk exhibition. The models are about 1:14 of the real proportion that comprises palaces, an honorific arch, the King Boat, puppets for the parade and various kinds of models. It is certainly a scene of bustle and excitement. Other than the exhibition on the models, the Preparation Office of Southern Folk Cultural Materials Center(南方俗民物質文化資料館) has also prepare a complete and informative exhibition on handwritten navigation and ceremonial scriptures from the Ming and Ching Dynasty. 

Donglung Temple of Sanliao Bay has branched out from Wenwang Temple(溫王廟) in Donggang. The temple was established in 1948 and was first named “Tzuan Temple”, but later it was changed to “Donglung Temple”. While it followed and imitated the Ceremony of the King Boat Ceremony of Donglung Temple in Donggang, due to the fact that the celebration for Wunwang’s birthday is on November 1 of the lunar calendar. This year, the Donglung Temple of Sanliao Bay decided to change the King Boat Ceremony to the afternoon of October 30 of the Western calendar and the farewell ceremony on the afternoon of November 1. The King Boat will be delivered and cremated in Wangchuandi(王船地) of Sanliao Bay. According to Mr. Wen-hsien Chen, the committee member of Donglung Temple, the King Boat for this year is measured 42.29 taichi(台尺) (12.81M) that includes mast and flag pole with the height of 33 taichi(台尺) (9.99M) , which is equivalent of 3 stories high. The total budget is around NTD$2 million. With the worshipping ceremony, the ritual for universal salvation etc and other costs, the grand total should reach NTD$20 million. No wonder that the King Boat Ceremony has always been the largest and most unique local ceremony in the Southern Taiwan. For those who are interested in witnessing the event, The Chief Executive, Mr.Chen extends his warmest welcome for people to take part in the scene of the ceremony. 

<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/7754289231721_A.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="小朋友好奇觸摸大獅頭（陳衍吟攝）">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/9010289231721_B.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="獅頭有一人高（舞獅者為參展藝術家之一吳登興）">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/4211289231721_C.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="施竣雄邊示範邊講解各種獅頭的特色（陳衍吟攝）">]]></description>
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<title>Concert of Autumn Romance ~【Xinxin Nanguan Ensemble】Let Nanguan (Southern Winds)’s Poetic Sentimentality of Early Autumn Touch Your Heart Strings</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD01Mg==</link>
<pubDate>2008/10/23</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ We have invited Xinxin Wang, former Director- General of “LiyuanDance Studio of the Han-Tang Yuefu Music Ensemble”, and later went on to found her own “Xinxin Nanguan” Ensemble in 2002. While Wang has been dedicated herself in the restoration of traditional Chinese classical music, she also makes an extra effort to redefine nanguan with a new role in the modern society. Xinxin Wang was born and raised in Quanzhou, Fujian, the hometown of nanguan and has received her nanguan education at the age of four. She then mastered in all different methods of fingering, composition and various musical instruments, especially singing, which she had won countless awards. In 1992, Xinxin Wang relocated to Taiwan to take the position of Director-General and the first musician of “The Han-Tang Yuefu Music Ensemble”. She traveled with the Han-Tang to the renowned universities and major art festivals all over the world. In 1995, she was the winner of “the Golden Tripod Award” of the Government Information Office, Executive Yuan for the best singing and performance. Wang’s album “Tang Poetry in Nanguan Performance- Thoughts upon a Silent Night” won “the Golden Melody Award” for best album. Xinxin Wang has a perfect pitch for singing, together with her graceful music style; and a subtle melody and rhythm that touches every heart string. With the emblematic characteristics of purity and straightforwardness of classical music, Wang gathered years of artistic accomplishments and performance skills, which made her the master of the voice of nanguan in Taiwan. Apart from her musical performance, it is hard to believe that she is also very experienced in teaching. The method of her teaching is systematic and easy to grasp, which helps the learners who really keen to understand more about nanguan gradually and build the skill from the ground up. With the most effective way of learning the knowledge of nanguan music- Wang is one of the rare topnotch nanguan musicians and researchers in teaching you can find in Taiwan. 
 
Apart from the other nanguan concerts in the past, the nanguan music concert of the early autumn that was held in NCTA will consist mostly lighthearted and mirthful repertoire. 
We can see a few glimpses of everyday life of ordinary people through these musical pieces. The stunning surrounding scenery of NCTA seems turn back the hands of time and captivates the audiences in a bygone era so they feel part of the scene. The fun and lively learning experience will be sharing with the audiences the gentle and classical style of nanguan music.   
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<title>“MSU-IIT Kalimulan Cultural Dance Troupe” displays Islamic characteristics and customs from the southern Philippines</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD01MQ==</link>
<pubDate>2008/10/20</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The “MSU-IIT Kalimulan Cultural Dance Troupe” brings us a touch of the southern Philippines and gives performances on Mindanao folk dances. The troupe’s name Kalimulan is coined from Kalilan and Kaamulan to denote the communication and integration of the local Islamic and non-Islamic cultures. The troupe won the Best Dancing Troupe Award from the ALIW Award in 2006. Traditional dances of Mindanao are different from the passionate and carefree style of general Filipino folk dances. Under Islamic influence, Mindanao traditional dances emphasize hand motions. Dancers are solemn and elegant. The repertoire presented by the troupe at the Asia-Pacific Traditional Arts Festival 2008 includes the Kapag-apir-apir (fan dance for welcoming guests), the Tutop in which women dancers cover up the feet of the main characters with tutop woven with bamboo leaves, and the Kapa Malong-Malong using different styles of dressing to represent puberty. All these dances present the multidimensional customs and culture of Mindanao.
Two Filipino craft artists are also invited to demonstrate the Filipino crafts to Taiwanese audiences. Mr. Rudel San Gaspar will present his famous wood sculptures. Fine wood sculpture is the major income source of Pakil citizens. With magical craftsmanship, they turn bulky wood into fine artwork, such as necklaces, earrings, photo frames, furniture and decorations. Traditional woodwork without the use of either nails or glue is the distinctive feature of Pakil wood sculpture art. It is an art creation requiring extreme patience, concentration and creativity.
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<title>Celebrating National Day with Filipino and Taiwanese folk dances and music!</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD01MA==</link>
<pubDate>2008/10/13</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The “Asia-Pacific Traditional Arts Festival 2008” and “Taiwanese Folklores Exhibition” began on October 10, the National Day of the Republic of China. The exotic flavor of the bustling traditional dances and music of the Philippines and the folkloric taste of the characteristic folk parades and dances displaying the festival characteristics of Taiwan have turned the NCFTA more colorful.
At the grand opening held today (Oct 10), students of the Taipei Physical Education College Dancing Troupe presented the opening performance Beauty of Taiwan Festival, a dance combining the jiazhang (家將) and pojiejie (婆姐組) repertoire. Also, as it was ROC National Day, the organizer prepared a large peach-shaped bun symbolizing the joy of birth to celebrate the birthday of the Republic of China. The “Asia-Pacific Traditional Arts Festival 2008” and “Taiwanese Folklore Exhibition” officially began in the performances of all teams and the congratulations of audiences. The organizer also presented small peach-shaped buns to visitors to share the joy of the festival.
The “Bayanihan National Folk Dance Company”, a national treasure of the Philippines; the “Banda Kawayan Artistic Group” beloved by the audience; the “Pangsiw Artistic Group of the Madukayan Tribe” from the mountain area in northern Philippines; and the “Taipei Physical Education College Dancing Troupe” representing Taiwan all presented dancing and musical performances at the opening ceremony, making the ceremony festive and alive. In the theme of WOW Philippines!, the APTAF organizer invited five celebrated Filipino performing groups and four Filipino craft artists to stage performances and demonstrations of Filipino traditional arts to allow Taiwanese citizens understand more about the beauty of the multidimensional Filipino traditional culture through exquisite cultural performances and exchange.
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<title>Asia-Pacific Traditional Arts Festival 2008 kicks off!</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD00Nw==</link>
<pubDate>2008/10/1</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Every October, the National Center for Traditional Arts (NCFTA) located by the Dongshan River organizes the annual event—Asia-Pacific Traditional Arts Festival (APTAF). It is a cultural exchange and welcome treat of a host of elite performing groups and artists of traditional arts from different parts of Asia-Pacific, to encourage artistic exchange and dialog with Asia-Pacific countries through cultural diplomacy. Since 2000, the festival has been held for 6 consecutive years. This year, the APTAF will surprise you with WOW Philippines! activities. The Philippines consists of 7,107 islands geographically divided intro three major groups: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. As exchange among the islands is difficult, there is a myriad of dialects, ethnic groups and religions forming colorful cultures. In order to fully display Filipino culture as a whole and to allow let Taiwanese citizens connect with Asia-Pacific groups, the NCFTA has especially planned “traditional dance performance”, “craft art demonstration” and “musical instrument exhibition” to fully display the different cultural aspects in northern, central and southern Philippines.
The APTAF 2008 will be held from October 4-October 31. In addition to the “Fantastic Sounds from the Land of the Philippines—An Exhibition on the Traditional Instruments of the Philippines and Its Neighboring Countries” which runs throughout the festival, there will be the “Filipino Traditional Music and Dance” and the “Traditional Filipino Art Demonstration” from October 10-October 19. If you want to learn more about Filipino customs and culture, you can visit the Media Briefing Room to see the cultural documentaries provided by the Cultural Center of the Philippines. If you like exotic cultures and customs, you should not miss this chance!
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<title>Masters of Eggshell Sculptors- </title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD00Ng==</link>
<pubDate>2008/9/12</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Chang-shun Chien was nicknamed “wan-dan (playing with the eggs), wan-dan (screwed-up thing)”. He is a man of strong determination and has a real passion for art. After numerous years of tireless exploring and practicing, this self-taught artist has finally established his own footing and received recognition from others. Chang-shun Chien’s involvement with the making of the eggshell sculpture was started in 1980. It was the time when he enjoyed his sunny-side-up eggs, all of a suddenly, an idea came across his mind. He could feel the urge of recycling those eggshells and transforming them into exquisite artworks. Ever since then, Chang-shun Chien’s fate has intertwined and bound with “eggshell sculpture”. His unique artistic style and conception were formed. 

Chang-shun Chien believes that the “eggshell sculpture” is a unique mundane art, which turns mediocrity into uniqueness. On the other hand, the eggshell sculptures not only are precious for collectors, but the recycling of the eggshells also helps to solve environmental issues. 
He uses materials like chicken egg, goose egg, peacock egg, gecko egg, fresh-water turtle egg, ostrich egg etc to curve a wide range of vivid and exciting patterns, lines and characters. Those ordinary eggshells have showed us surprises in every way. We are truly overwhelmed by such painstakingly beautiful craftsmanship.  

The National Palace Museum’s “Multi-layer Ivory Sphere(象牙雕多層球)” was Chun-mai Kuan’s main source of inspiration to work on eggshell sculpture. However, the unavailability and high-price of ivory make it impossible to fulfill his childhood dream of creating his very own multi-layer ivory sphere. There was a time when his pregnant wife was about to deliver, the hen that his relatives have given as the present of prenatal care had laid an egg. While he picked up the egg, an idea came to his mind: “Instead of using ivory as the sculptural material, why can’t I use perfectly built eggshells instead!” From then on, Chun-mai Kuan devoted himself in the world of eggshell sculpture, and explored the world for almost 30 years. The eggshell is extremely delicate; any careless mistakes will ruin the whole sculpture. Therefore, time and extra effort are required during the process of creating eggshell sculpture.
This explains why eggshell sculpture is so rare and precious. 
<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/7447263204731_A.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="南管美人王心心">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/8419263204731_B.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="法國英挺大提琴手法朗克‧白瑞德">]]></description>
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<title>NCTA’s Exciting Beiguan Music Kicks off in September! Chuchien Beiguan Art Group (竹塹北管藝術團) of Hsinchu Presents a New Generation of the Authentic Beiguan!</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD00NQ==</link>
<pubDate>2008/9/5</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Starting this weekend, NCTA has organized a series of theme events in September of “The Music and Traditional Opera of Nanguan and Beiguan”. Other than the music of nanguan, beiguan and the traditional puppet show that are included in the event, we have also invited new talents. All together, there will be more than 100 performers from all over Taiwan performing a variety of styles of nanguan and beiguan with artistic significances.

The beiguan movement in Hsinchu region has played a vital role throughout the development of Taiwanese traditional opera. “Wuhusen Yishe” (五軒一社) was first established during the Japanese colonial period. Even now, Wuhusen Yishe’s (五軒一社) well-defined organizational structure and enthusiasm are still a frequently discussed topic among the older generation. The amateur group “Hsuen Shen” (軒社) of Hsinchu is a major breeding ground for numerous beiguan professionals. Beiguan has faced harsh challenges of the modern trend, and, at times, was in danger of extinction. Due to the long-standing efforts of its devotees, “Hsinchu City Society for Beiguan and Traditional Opera” (新竹市北管戲曲促進會) was finally established in 1999. It not only broke Hsuen She’s (軒社) tradition of no job shuffle in the industry, but gathered performers and supported the group for the next several years. Since the “Chuchien Beiguan Wind Art Group” (竹塹北管藝術團) was established in December, 2007, it has actively promoted the art and traditional opera of beiguan, as well as working hard to pass the heritage on to future generations. So far, they have slowly, but surely, achieved their goals

Now, “Chuchien Beiguan Wind Art Group” (竹塹北管藝術團) gives the most authentic performance on the classic beiguan opera “Tianshuiguan” (天水關) and “Liushiu Fukuo” (劉秀復國). A renowned makeup master for opera, Tsun Po Fu, will be the chief makeup artist, and will conduct the live makeup demonstration. Young scholars will also participate in the opening and the performance of beiguan. Such wonderful and exciting performances will help to present the qualities of beiguan all at once. Audiences can now experience the captivating lure of the traditional art.
<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/331825613545_A.jpg" border="0" width="240" height="181" alt="明梨園">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/830425613546_B.jpg" border="0" width="240" height="179" alt="樹林國小">]]></description>
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<title>“You must become the change you want to see in the world- Family Lou’s Miniature Sculpture”</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD00NA==</link>
<pubDate>2008/8/27</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The exhibition “2008 Taiwan Sculpture Exhibition” of NCTA is currently exhibiting 9 miniature sculptures of Mr. Yung-yu Lou (over 90 years old) and his son Mr. Fei-hsin Lou. A magnifying glass is needed when going through the fine details of these art works, and therefore long queues of people always are always standing in front waiting to see the artworks. The most fascinating artwork of all is the sculpture of the long Golden Buddha Poem with 5,140 characters, which was carefully and neatly curved on a head of an ox. 

Mr. Yung-yu Lou was involved in miniature sculpturing back in his early days in China, however, he was forced to give it up due to the civil war. After he relocated to Hualien, during his service with the Tobacco Factory of Taiwan Tobacco and Liquor Corporation, Mr. Lou made use of his free time and worked on marble sculpture. This was a time when the marble industry of Hualien just about to boom, which was back between 1960 and 1970. Somehow, Mr. Lou managed to gather bits and pieces of his miniature sculpture technique he learned during his youth. Mr. Lou’s profound drawing skill and talent has made his marble handicraft extremely popular. 
In Chinese measurement: 10 “si” make a “hao” (si equivalent of 0.000001kg and hao is 0.00001kg), 10 “hao” make a “li” and 10 “li” make a “fen”
(li equivalent of 0.0001kg and fen is 0.001kg); hence 1 hao is approximately 1/100 of 1 centimeter. The Chinese character “mang” means the pointy part of the hair and “hao-mang” means extremely minute or small. Peace of mind is required when working on miniature sculpture. Lou’s family often studies the writings of the Buddha and meditation to calm their minds. Through a deeper state concentration, they are able to travel into the sesame-like small kingdom. No wonder miniature sculpture was given another name of “mind sculpture”. 
“2008 Taiwan Sculpture” will be exhibited until September 21 at NCTA Exhibition Center, which will start from 9am until 7pm during summer vacation months of July and August. We are closed on Monday morning. Please take this opportunity and visit our exhibition. 
<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/7751250101623_A.jpg" border="0" width="213" height="240" alt="吳素霞指導學生排練">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/2952250101623_B.jpg" border="0" width="240" height="179" alt="吳素霞指導學生排練">]]></description>
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<title>In-sight into Hui-Shang Yang’s Poetic, Translucent and Glittering World of Glass</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD00Mw==</link>
<pubDate>2008/8/26</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Hui-Shang Yang of Liuli Gongfang is invited to take part in exhibiting her eight artworks in the NCTA’s “2008 Sculpture Expo”. In amongst the eight artworks, “Duo Ching (Sentimental)” is Hui-Shang Yang’s most recent masterpiece from her “Chenming Chihwu (Clear Realization)” series that has been invited to exhibit in USA in 2007. This series has enchanted the Western world and purchased by two main museums as part of their permanent collections. Hui-Shang Yang is renowned for her unique observations. She captures the wonderful moment of peonies bending in the breeze and further presented in a huge canvas is specifically designed for audiences to gaze upon attentively. 
Hui-Shang Yang’s involvement in flower theme is a way to depict life-force. “Huahao Yueyuan (Blooming flowers and Full moon)” series is the first phase: She has successfully demonstrated the lost wax casting technique to a new level of mastery. As a result, this series composes charming hues and the realistic appearance, which symbolizes exuberant life force in a blissful perfect state. The second phase starts from a flourishing scene of prosperity but turns transparent in theblink of an eye. Such a crystal-clear appearance is an honest depiction of the essence of the glass. Her source of inspiration originated in her realization of the “ever-changing” state- especially how insignificant human beings are when facing changes in life. Hui-Shang Yang uses glass art to suggest her attitude toward life: embrace every moment while you can. 
Hui-Shang Yang’s insightful observation redefines life, which serves as the source of creation to produce art work of tradition and cultural studies. She makes the use of the special quality of glass, which further explores the new techniques and form. The glass art has been given with a brand new definition in the modern context. For every art piìe, Yi Chang composed a zen poem that touches the bottom of your heart. The art works of both Hui-Shang Yang and Yi Chang became the representative works of oriental glass art. Their arts have exhibited in dozen of countries worldwide, gained enormous responses from the international art world and purchased by museums for permanent collections.
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<title>Exciting Kick-off for the “Open Chiang (Open小將) Creative Puppet Shows” Starting from August 15! Open Chiang will perform the Creative Puppet Shows with nation’s best puppet teams at the National Center for Traditional Art (NCTA)!</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD00Mg==</link>
<pubDate>2008/8/18</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ After the “2008 Traditional and Modern Puppet Joint Show” at the NCTA’s puppet series of August, Open Chiang will be taking the lead in “Open Chiang Creative Puppet Shows” starting from August 15 through August 22. All of N Chiang(N將) family members (Opening Chiang, Small Peach(小桃), Barcode Cat(條碼貓), Small Chuluan(小竹輪), etc.) will gather together at the NCTA for talent compete and to show off their creativity! Based on the traditional puppet format, a huge variety of puppets are used as a medium for children to perform and tell stories in a colorful, animated and childlike manner. You are invited to venture into the uncharted world of children’s creative puppetry!
The Purpose of the “National Students’ Creative Puppet Competition” is to incorporate general art education, along with the art and social science syllabus of elementary, junior and senior school levels to promote “the creative puppet education” for the art education of all school levels. This helps to strengthen students’ knowledge structure for art and social sciences, as well as to encourage more creativity and innovation in art education. This will be the very first students’ traditional puppet competition that comes with a new style of performance. The rules of the competition are to be as original as possible in scripture, dialogue, music, puppet, setting and props. Each and every creative show signifies the result of the full effort and time of the teachers and students. 
We have invited the most popular and cutest characters of the 7-ELEVEN- Open Chiang Family as our special guest stars. The audiences will enjoy two totally different styles of puppets: man-size and hand puppets. Open Chiang will perform the magic of happiness to all our guests and help us share the joyous ambience of creative puppets. 
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<title>“The Blending Of Old and New- 2008 Traditional and Modern Puppet JointShow” Starts on August 2! From old master to new talent, all 10 greatpuppet companies will be showcased here!  </title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD00MQ==</link>
<pubDate>2008/8/11</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The largest annual event of puppet show industry in Taiwan “The Blending Of Old and New- 2008 Traditional and Modern Puppet Joint Show” is supervised by Executive Yuan Council for Cultural Affairs and organized by Preparatory Office for National Taiwan Traditional Arts Headquarter. (國立台灣傳統藝術總處籌備處) All puppet companies will take part in this exciting and vibrant 10-day extravaganza starting from August 2, 2008 in National Center for Traditional Arts (NCTA) of Ilan.

Taiwan’s puppet show industry is currently consisted of two mainstream movements: the traditional movement and “Jing-Guang” (Golden-Light) movement. This joint show not only enhances the unification of the puppet movements but also brings honor to our cultural heritage. While maintaining the finest artistic profession of two puppet movements, each puppet company is highly individual in style and very unique in their list of plays. The main organizer of the event also arranges a course on “Traditional Performance Art Management”, which aims to introduce the members of these quality puppet companies relating to their effective planning and management. The company members will gain a better understanding on composing proposals as well as learn about the terms and conditions of copyright of the traditional plays. All company members are welcomed to sign up for the course. At the same time, “Exhibition on National Students’ Creative Puppet Competition”(全國學生創意偶戲比賽戲偶展) will also be held at the hall of NCTA Drama Center. The purpose of this exhibition is to preserve our cultural heritage in this new era. By showcasing students’ creativity in puppets making for the competition, every one of us will be experiencing the new diverse look of puppets from the eyes of young generation.

“The Blending Of Old and New- 2008 Traditional and Modern Puppet Joint Show” will be held at NCTA. The fans of puppet from all over Taiwan are welcomed to take part from August 2 through 11. Make trip to Ilan, you will surely enjoy a grand feast of puppet and the stunning sunset of summer.
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<title>Heinrich (Shya-Jiun) Wang’s Porcelain Artwork “Standing Position”Series Set New Eastern Aesthetics</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD00MA==</link>
<pubDate>2008/7/22</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ “The seed of porcelain has been hidden deep down inside of Heinrich Wang’s heart for more than ten years. In the beginning of the 21st century, the seed was covered with thick and heavy soil of Chinese culture before it started to sprout. The silvery but snowy like scenery of contemporary porcelain has blossomed from then on.” This is a “deja vu” (This scene gives a sense of familiarity) vision. In the past, the glass manufacturing industry was one of the declining traditional industries in Taiwan. The very first seed of a revolution was sowed after Heinrich returned from his glass-study in the USA, which followed by the establishment of Liuli Gongfang and Tittot. He has not only set out to trigger and rewrite the glass industry of Taiwan, but expanded his influences around Hong Kong, China etc. This is a resplendent revolution that sparkles with burning passion and determination. 

With Heinrich’s infinite dreams and visions of fine craftsmanship, he was actively involved in the research and development of porcelain in 2003. Heinrich was intended to challenge another “traditional industry”, by means of passing down our ancestors’ thousand of years “a high-raise wall like” tradition. The tradition of western porcelain was derived from the Industrial Revolution. We are currently surrounded by the powerful influences from a thousand years of Chinese history and western porcelain, how could Heinrich Wang be possibly starting the new Chinese porcelain of the 21st century? After 3 years of research and development, the brand “New Qi from Eight Directions” was finally introduced in 2006. This new Eastern porcelain signified the establishment of the new contemporary aesthetics. Such gentle, velvety-smooth and flawless white porcelain no longer possesses the old-fashioned quality and form. A new generation of porcelain comprises a more trendy and stylish appearance.

“2008 Exhibition of Sculptures in Taiwan” will be exhibiting from July 1 through September 21 and will take place at the National Center for Traditional Arts. The fans of porcelain and Heinrich Wang are welcome to visit. 
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<title>Clay Sculptor Chu Yi-cheng to demonstrate at NCFTA </title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD0zOQ==</link>
<pubDate>2008/7/21</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Chu Yi-cheng, the ceramic artist participating in the Exhibition of Sculptures in Taiwan 2008, was born in 1962 on the banks of the Kaoping River. His father did odd jobs to raise a family of 5 brothers and sisters. When his father, the breadwinner of the family, died Chu was 7 years old;. So, his brothers and sisters began making a living by picking out odds and ends from garbage piles. His mother always said that “if they cannot study well, learning some skills will be more practical.” Chu was asked to choose between being a “black hand” (mechanic) or an apprentice at a Buddhist sculpture shop after graduating from elementary school. He said, “I want to make sculptures of Buddha”. This is how his relationship with Buddhist idols and clay sculptures began.

Chu and his wife created the Chukeng Kilning Art Studio(粗坑窯藝術空間) in the humble Kaoping Village in Lungtan Township, Taoyuan. It is a clay sculpture studio and an open art space combination. In the early years, Mr. and Mrs. Chu worked by hand to build this fully Hakka-styled artistic garden, tile by tile and brick by brick. There is a platform in the garden for visitors to enjoy tea while enjoying the scenery. During the flower season, many artists and musicians visit here to make music with zheng and bamboo flutes, or practice calligraphy. Amidst the delicate music in the air, the tea becomes more aromatic, and flower watching becomes a more elegant and spiritual experience.

During the demonstration period of the National Center for Traditional Arts, Chu will interact with the visitors with traditional clay sculptures. When inspiration comes, visitors will become his models. Whether it is with clay sculptures, kilned pottery sculptures or bronze sculptures, Chu can always accurately depict the character and subject matter. According to Chu, many believe that they do not understand art; in fact, everyone lives in art because most artists are inspired by people, events and objects from real life and translate their feelings into their works.
<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/709023415226_A.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/561723415226_B.jpg" border="0" width="158" height="240" alt="">]]></description>
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<title>The Treasure of Taiwan- Dazzlingly Colorful Cochin Ware</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD0zNw==</link>
<pubDate>2008/7/11</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The “2008 Exhibition of Sculpture in Taiwan” takes place at National Center for Traditional Art (NCTA) and covers a wide range of art movements from representationalism, realism to abstractionism, and through different mediums: stone, jade, leather, glass, ceramics, cochin ware, animal teeth and bones, egg shell, calabash and mixed media. This is a fine collection of signature sculptures with the most comprehensive and highest standard of artistic professionalism in the recent years! 
Cochin ware is the most recognized craft of Taiwan and is also known as “Jiao-Zhi-Shao’. It was first appeared in Chiayi (Taiwan) as a soft colorful ceramic back the Ching dynasty. Cochin ware comprises of a gem-like glaze and crystal-clear quality. It was commonly used as decorations in the upper sections of temples. Due to its exquisite and resplendent appearance, cochin ware gradually transformed from temple decorations to popular curios of households. 
This was Wang Yeh’s contribution to the development of cochin ware in Taiwan. The remaining cochin wares of Wang Ye can only be found in “Tsuji Temple” of Syuejia Township and “Chenhsing Temple” of Jialie Township in Tainan. Given the fact that both temples haven been burglarized  in past, Wang Yeh’s remaining cochin ware turned out to be the classic artworks of rarity. Wang Yeh’s use of subtle colors formed the classic expression of grandeur. The facial expressions of his characters were vividly depicted. Along with a strong element of creativity, his artworks provided both earthy and elegant feelings. Wang Yeh’s unique inventions of colored glazes (crimson, cyan etc) are called “Wang Ye cochin ware” and also known as a “national treasure”. 
Wang Yeh’s “Twining Dragon Candle Holder”, the highlight of the NCTA has been especially chosen to be showcased at this sculpture exhibition. This extraordinary piece of artwork depicted a magnificent scene of dragons emerging from the water surrounded by clusters of divine clouds. The artist included yellow and cyan into his main palette, which helped to accentuate the spirit and pride of these rising dragons. The artist further decorated the base of candleholder with “Feet of Lion”, which was believed to have the ability to ward off the curse of evils and misfortune. Although each dragon has its own posture and personality, the composition is still very well-balanced. This astonishing piece of art is simply one of a kind in history!

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<title>Stunning Taiwanese Folk Opera Performances in July. Exciting Shows Everyday at NCTA! </title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD0zOA==</link>
<pubDate>2008/7/9</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The National Center for Traditional Arts (NCTA) will host a series of “2008 The Summer Festival of Transmitting on Folk Art” activities this summer vacation. In addition to the upcoming season “2008 Sculpture Exhibition in Taiwan”, July and August monthly themes include activities on traditional Taiwanese theatrical performance “Taiwanese folk opera” and “puppet show”. Everyone is invited to sign up for this summer cultural journey to enjoy the fun and beauty of our traditional arts! The July launch of a diverse range of programs on “Taiwanese folk opera” has already drawn huge crowds. 

Taiwanese folk opera has developed for over one hundred years. It is a traditional form of drama that originated in Taiwan. Even now, Taiwanese still share fond memories of watching folk opera, staged during temple fairs when young; and streets were deserted when opera was first introduced on TV. Taiwanese folk opera has finally transformed into a form of theatrical high art. Each development was imbued with vigorous energy, passion and enthusiasm for Taiwanese folk art.

NCTA’s “Taiwanese folk opera” activities of this summer are advertised with the slogan of “Exciting shows everyday”! Audiences are invited to a table for two that comprises a special stage of “Taiwanese folk opera online” interactive activity. Through a presenter’s explanation and guidance, audiences will visit the stage and experience the fascinating virtual world of folk opera! Many more exciting performances can be found everyday. Taiwanese folk opera is performed by artists old and new, along with both high art and popular art forms. Through such diverse styles of performances, Taiwanese folk opera can further be defined with deeper levels of new meaning. Audiences can now enjoy the opera to the fullest extend. It is guaranteed to be worth your time!

<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/3123234152042_A.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/4880234152042_B.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="">]]></description>
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<title>“First Blast of Summer- Pili Shocks Art WorldHistory of the Awe-Inspiring Pili Epic War– Interactive Multi-MediaPuppet Show Exhibition” Experiencing Explosion Anytime from Now! !</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD0zNQ==</link>
<pubDate>2008/7/5</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Featuring the combination of hi-tech multi-media with traditional puppetry, “History of Awe-Inspiring Pili War Epic – Interactive Media Puppetry Exhibition” the explosive Pili exhibition will take place starting July 1 at the National Center for Traditional Arts (NCTA)!
”History of Awe-Inspiring Epic Pili War– Interactive Media Puppetry Exhibition” is an exciting adventure from several eras. The interplay of hi-tech sound, light and multi-media effects, with interactive  audiences will lead to the puppet world of fascination. It not only pushes the boundaries of traditional art, but starts a brand new chapter. The success of Pili Puppet Show will help us to rediscover its significance with a new definition of “traditional art in the form of conventional creativity”. This will certainly be a global cultural movement in the future.

Pili Puppet Show sets an example of combining the traditional puppet show with light, sound and multi-media effects. This serves to broaden audiences’ horizons . With the help of interactive media, we are promoting the traditional art industry and introducing the new digital art trend. We are honored to invite Pili International Multi-Media for organizing this exhibition. Through this face-to-face experience with puppets, audiences will gain a better understanding and become supporters of puppetry, which further helps to expand the number of fans.
We have included the themes of 5 key epic wars with 65 puppet characters at major exhibition area! This electrifying “History of Awe-Inspiring Pili Epic War– Interactive Multi-Media Puppet Show Exhibition” will be starting July 1 and run until August 31 at the NCTA.
Puppet fans must not miss out this once-in-the-life-time opportunity!
<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/6863234151539_A.jpg" border="0" width="240" height="136" alt="">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/1092234151539_B.jpg" border="0" width="240" height="159" alt="">]]></description>
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<title>“The Summer Festival of Transmitting Folk Art - Taiwanese Folk Opera inJuly and Puppetry in August Sculpt Your Summer” </title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD0zNg==</link>
<pubDate>2008/7/3</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The National Center for Traditional Arts (NCTA) has organized a series of “2008 The Summer Festival of Transmitting Folk Art” activities for this coming summer vacation. The opening ceremony will be held at the square in front of Wen-Chang Temple on July 5. This special event includes a diverse range of art: including sculpture, Taiwanese folk opera and puppetry. The action sculptor Mr. Chi-Chang Cheng, Taiwanese folk opera actress Ms. Ching-Fang Li and Mr. Ying-Chiung Wang of the Ching-Kuang Puppet Group and Coser cosplay etc. will perform at the opening ceremony to celebrate the start of this summer art festival. 

The main organizer, Mr. Te-Fu Lin of Preparatory Department of the NCTA states that the ultimate goal of NCTA is to offer tourists a very enlightening art vacation. During Mr. Lin’s term of office, he has organized “Craft Biennale” with 8 themes. This sculpture exhibition is the 7th theme of biennale, which will feature more than 260 signature pieces of artwork from 60 leading sculptors: including works from Mr. Ying-Feng Yang, Mr. Ming Chu, Mr. hsuan-San Wu, Ms. Hui-Shan Yang, and Mr. Hsia-Chun Wang. It is described as the best of the best at the art event. We are here to offer our gratitude to those masters who will participate and welcome every one to visit this excellent art festival at the NCTA.

During “The 2008 Summer Festival of Transmitting Folk Art”, the theme of July is Taiwanese folk opera, and puppetry in August. The NCTA will host an exciting show every hour. Other than the marvelous exhibitions and performances, various sculpture workshops on Chuan-Hsi Street will be great for families to visit during the summer vacation. Starting from today until August 31, the NCTA will extend operation hours until seven at night.
<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/9338234151710_A.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="">&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_ce/Images/News/big/9338234151710_B.jpg" border="0" width="159" height="240" alt="">]]></description>
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<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD0zNA==</guid>
<title>Let’s Talk About Taiwanese Telling and Singing Art!</title>
<link>http://www.ncfta.gov.tw/ncfta_eh/cindex100/enews0111.aspx?E=SWRlbnRpdHlJRD0zNA==</link>
<pubDate>2008/6/20</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The National Center for Traditional Arts (NCTA) presents to you the Taiwanese Bickering Art, Folksong Singing and Taiwanese Rhymes in the theme of Telling and Singing Art this June to show you the linguistic fun of the telling and singing art and the characteristics of such an art form and Taiwanese language in the traditional agricultural society. According to the NCTA, ballade is the main form of the traditional Taiwanese telling and singing art, though there are also other forms, including description of scenes and lyrics. They are short, powerful, secular and easy to understand. A telling and singing performance often includes storytelling, singing or even mimic shows. The telling and singing art has a long history and different variations, and can be combined with other folksongs and dramas. It can be combined with different forms of performances in many different ways. Through the bickering art, something like the talk show, artists can display their talking skills and artistic literacy; and audiences can feel the flexibility and freedom of the telling and singing art. With these performances, audiences can also learn more about the simplicity of folklore and rural features.

The telling and singing art activities presented by the NCTA this June will focus on the traditional folk telling and singing art. The Suyang Folkloric Dancing Troupe(旭陽車鼓劇團) is one of the representative dancing troupes from Yuenlin and one of the handful folkloric dancing troupes insisting on pure folkloric elements. Leader Wu Hsien-shan is the son of the national-treasure class telling and singing artist Wu Tien-lo. The troupe will present audiences improvised performances with self-entertaining and poetic sentiments found in the agricultural society in terms of ancient and wonderful tunes combined to humorous actions, dialogues
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