Taiwan Acrobatic Troupe tours 10 North America cities

台灣特技團巡演北美10個城市

Acrobatics and traditional Taiwanese temple procession performances to be showcased


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taiwan Acrobatic Troupe is on a 10-city North America tour to celebrate National Day on Oct. 10, fusing acrobatics with traditional Taiwanese temple procession performances.

The group departed from Taiwan on Aug. 29 and has performed in Rhode Island, New York, Michigan, Chicago, and Dallas. They have arrived in Los Angeles and are preparing for their performance on Sept. 18, per CNA.

After L.A., the troupe will continue their tour to Seattle and Vancouver, Canada. Deputy Director Wang Hsi-Chung (王希中) emphasized the performance's fusion of tradition and modernity, incorporating elements such as Ba Jia-jiang and San Taizi.

The Ba Jia-jiang, or Eight Generals, are the loyal followers of Wufu dadi. These deities have become an essential part of Taiwanese folk religious processions, with the most complete formation consisting of 13 members, per National Religion Information Network and National Cultural Heritage Database.

During processions of Wufu dadi, the generals assist in capturing evil spirits and demons.

Zhongtan Yuanshuai, also known as Nazha San Taizi, is a protector deity and the commander of the Five Camps, divine battalions tasked with safeguarding temples. He is often portrayed as a strong young man riding a fenghuo lun, a wheel propelled by wind and fire, according to the National Religion Information Network.

Both local Taiwanese Americans and foreign dignitaries are expected to attend the L.A. performance. Consul generals from several countries, including the Marshall Islands, Lithuania, the Philippines, Switzerland, and Paraguay will also watch the show.

The performance aims to illustrate the struggles and triumphs of early Taiwanese immigrants and their unwavering spirit. It also showcases Taiwan's modern athletic accomplishments through the use of cutting-edge technology, Wang said.

Touring internationally presents various challenges, such as jet lag and adapting to unfamiliar climates, Wang mentioned. However, the acrobats' professional training and preparation allow them to overcome these difficulties.

Wang expressed his appreciation for the support of Taiwanese communities abroad, emphasizing the considerable effort involved in organizing each performance. This tour is part of an annual cultural exchange program sponsored by the Overseas Community Affairs Council, which selects outstanding Taiwanese arts groups to showcase their talents internationally.