By MOOK Travel Life Network, reported and compiled by Li Xinyi
The 11th Asia-Pacific Traditional Arts Festival begins today at the Yilan National Center for Traditional Arts, with this year’s theme “Time-Traveling FUN Silk Road,” taking the focus toward Central and West Asia. The nine-day festival has invited nearly 60 artists from five countries—Iran, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkey, and India—to Taiwan for cultural exchange. Performing troupes will appear in two phases: Phase one (Oct 6–9) features Iran’s Sabā National Orchestra and Uzbekistan’s National Folk Music and Dance Ensemble. Phase two (Oct 10–14) includes Kazakhstan’s Turan National Orchestra, Turkey’s Bursa National Music and Dance Ensemble, and India’s Nrityagram Dance Ensemble.
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Rare Silk Road crafts and performances will be presented at the National Center for Traditional Arts from October 6 to 14. (Photo provided by National Center for Traditional Arts)
From October 6 to 14, the Center will host up to 41 music and dance performances. In addition to the aforementioned Central and West Asian troupes, eight Taiwanese groups will also perform under the theme “Silk Road Civilization,” showcasing their exploration and adaptation of Central and West Asian cultural heritage. Beyond performing arts, the festival also features Silk Road craft demonstrations, where Taiwanese artisans with similar skills will showcase their work on-site, including: “Taiwan Calligraphy & Painting vs. Iranian Islamic Calligraphy,” “Taiwan Lace Embroidery vs. Uzbek Embroidery Art,” “Taiwan Fiber Weaving vs. Kazakh Felt Weaving,” and “Taiwan Printmaking vs. Turkish Ebru Marbling.”
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This year’s Asia-Pacific Arts Festival takes the Silk Road as its theme, inviting artists from Iran, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkey, and India to perform in Taiwan. (Photo provided by National Center for Traditional Arts)
During the festival, the Tradition Street at the National Center for Traditional Arts will be transformed into a Silk Road caravan stop, selling handicrafts from Central and West Asia such as lacquerware, woven goods, wood carvings, glass beads, silver jewelry, and leather accessories. On October 10, National Day, Silk Road delicacies such as Iranian wraps, Indian flatbreads, milk tea, and Turkish ice cream will also be offered. Moreover, all those born on National Day are welcome to visit for free on that day. For details, please visit the official website of the National Center for Traditional Arts: www.ncfta.gov.tw.
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http://goo.gl/7rT7t