Train cars transform into a glamorous concert hall – MRT sparks new photo trend

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 high-tech-looking MRT carriages feature lights shifting from bright white to warm yellow, floors changing from beige to fiery red, and blue plastic seats seemingly bewitched into luxurious crimson audience seating.

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the National Theater and Concert Hall, Taipei MRT has collaborated with the venue to transform one of the electric multiple units on the Tamsui-Xinyi Line into a "Mobile National Theater" train. This special train will run for four months from October 2 to January 31 of the following year, offering passengers on the Tamsui-Xinyi Line an artistic travel experience.

This year marks the 30th birthday of the National Theater and Concert Hall. Taipei MRT and the venue have specially planned the "Mobile National Theater" train design, turning one of the Tamsui-Xinyi Line trains into a miniature version of the theater complex. The EMU includes an elegantly glamorous "Drama Theater," an artsy "Performing Arts Library," and the pinnacle of musical performance—the "Concert Hall."

To give passengers an immersive and moving experience, the ceilings in the "Drama Theater" and "Concert Hall" cars of the "Mobile National Theater" train mimic the actual venues' designs, with lighting replaced by the signature yellow lighting used at the National Theater and Concert Hall. In addition, red audience chairs from the real venues have been meticulously placed in the first and sixth cars, making the "Drama Theater" and "Concert Hall" sections even more fittingly named. Moreover, wall installations create a vivid three-dimensional effect, as if the train truly contains the venue’s iconic spiral staircase, momentarily giving riders the illusion they could step right onto it.

The "Performing Arts Library" car showcases the rich collection of the National Theater and Concert Hall’s Performing Arts Library. Passengers can scan carefully designed "QR codes" on the walls with their phones to instantly access brilliant performance video clips, posters, and stills online, and also participate in online lucky draw activities.