Train Cars Transformed into Glorious Music Halls as MRT Sparks New Photo Craze

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

MRT train cars and stations have recently become popular photo spots. Following the 2017 Universiade, where MRT cars were turned into pools and running tracks, from October 2 to January 31 of the following year, passengers riding the Tamsui-Xinyi Line will see the “Mobile National Theater” train. The originally techy-looking MRT cars now feature warm yellow lighting instead of stark white, beige floors transformed into fiery red, and blue plastic seats magically turned into luxurious crimson auditorium seating.

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the National Theater and Concert Hall, Taipei MRT has collaborated with the venue to transform one electric train car on the Tamsui-Xinyi Line into the “Mobile National Theater.” Running for four months from October 2 to January 31, this special train offers passengers on the Tamsui-Xinyi Line an artistic and immersive ride experience.

This year marks the 30th birthday of the National Theater and Concert Hall. Taipei MRT and the venue have specially designed the “Mobile National Theater” train, turning one car on the Tamsui-Xinyi Line into a miniature version of the cultural complex. Inside the electric train are an elegantly glamorous “Theater,” an arts-filled “Performing Arts Library,” and the pinnacle of musical performance—the “Concert Hall.”

To give passengers an “immersive” and moving experience, the ceilings in the “Theater” and “Concert Hall” cars of the “Mobile National Theater” train replicate the actual designs of those venues, and the lighting has been changed to the signature yellow of the National Theater and Concert Hall. In addition, with great care, real crimson audience seats from the venues were installed in the first and sixth cars, making the “Theater” and “Concert Hall” sections even more fittingly named. Moreover, wall installations create a vivid three-dimensional effect, almost making it seem as if the rotating staircases from the lobby have appeared inside the car, giving riders the illusion that they could step right up them.

The “Performing Arts Library” car showcases the rich collection of the National Theater and Concert Hall’s Performing Arts Library. Passengers can scan specially designed “QR codes” on the walls with their mobile phones to instantly enjoy video clips of performances, posters, and stills online, and also participate in online lucky draw activities.