Description
The Taiwan ROC Aboriginals Economics and Cultural Exchange Association
The indigenous peoples of Taiwan are an integrated multicultural community. Although Taiwan has experienced rapid economic development and heightened awareness of democratic principles, the gap between rich and poor - especially for indigenous people - has grown. The Taiwan ROC Aboriginals Economics and Cultural Exchange Association was thus established to raise the position of indigenous people in Taiwan society by bringing together our brightest tribal representatives to lay down a foundation of national resources, create indigenous-owned businesses, enhance the overall quality of life and prosperity of our peoples, and revive our heritage and cultural traditions.
The Taiwan ROC Aboriginals Economics and Cultural Exchange Association has been engaged in a wide range of cultural and economic exchange activities in Taiwan, China and North America since 1997. Its activities in Taiwan are primarily focused on education, career development and entrepreneurial opportunities for indigenous people.
Taipei Multicultural Arts Group
Keeping and educating people about indigenous culture and arts through diverse forms and the bringing together of different ethnic groups, TMAG seeks to create an ideal social structure of mutual assistance and respect. The collective learning in the pursuit and realizing of these ideals will open up humanity's horizons.
Established in 1996, TMAG has consistently demonstrated a dynamic vibrancy. Promoting and educating people about indigenous culture and arts, TMAG has traveled far and wide, to mountain villages and towns to major cities all around the world.
Performance Description
- Royal Celebration - Shows the charming royal culture of the Paiwan and Rukai tribes of southern Taiwan. The singing in one piece in which a royal daughter is married off is especially enchanting.
- Binan Ley Dance - This performance tells the story of the plains tribes of eastern Taiwan through the unbridled beauty of the dance of the Binan young women. Colorful costumes and flowers meld with the vibrant movement of the youthful dancers.
- Atayal Courtship Dance - The Atayal, the indigenous people traditionally distinguished by their face tatoos and for their exquisite weaving, have been the guardians of the sacred forests of Taiwan's north and central mountains for centuries. Courting couples hook their legs together in this traditional Atayal dance, which is considered an expression of love and a marriage proposal.
- Traditional Amis Folksongs - The Amis are the most populous of Taiwan's indigenous peoples and are recognized for their many traditional songs. The main vocal track of the 1996 Olympics theme song, "Return to Innocence," was sung by the Amis elder Guo Yingnan. These treasured folksongs are sure to inspire audiences young and old.
- Dance to the Sea - A beautiful Amis folk dance.
- Spirit Dance of the Flying Fish People - The Yami of Orchid Island are known for their simple yet wise dance with nature. One with the sea that nurtures them, the Yami perform this dance to dispel evil during their "flying fish ritual". Mysteriously exotic, it will leave audiences with an extraordinary experience.
- Chant of Alishan - Amidst the cloud mists and sacred forests of Alishan mountain live the Tsou people. This dance is different in that it is not a celebration but a somber entreaty to the Millet Goddess for her protection. When the Tsou call upon her, their powerful chant and movements create a rich poetic experience.
- Dynamic Display of Legendary Costumes - The traditional clothing and adornments of Taiwan's indigenous peoples are closely linked to the origins of each tribe. As such, each of Taiwan's tribes is a designer by nature. Taiwan Multicultural Arts Group has over the years created many "cool" new dance outfits and active wear that draws heavily from traditional designs, thus demonstrating the look and style of contemporary aboriginal legends.
- We are the World - Taiwan's indigenous peoples are famous for leading audiences and large groups of people in dance so that everyone can join the fun.
