Featuring seven themed pavilions highlighting the northern Taiwan metropolis’s cultural and natural marvels like Pingxi sky lanterns and Shihmen seascape, the event will be supplemented on weekends with performances by local art groups.
Lin Kuan-yuh, director of the Cultural Affairs Department at New Taipei City Government, said the lineup includes a diverse array of musical and theatrical talents such as Ifkids Theater, The Performing Art Company and W.H.O. Theater. “We are also staging interactive activities designed to give children a hands-on art experience.”
According to Lin, Fairytale Castle—the wildly popular parade boasting larger-than-life inflatable cartoon figures—will also return. “An Arabian-style castle and a 13-meter genie, as well as a stellar cast of Eastern and Western fairytale characters, are sure to prove popular,” he said.
The Middle East-themed parade is taking place daily Aug. 8-18 at New Taipei City Hall Citizen Plaza, also in Banqiao District. In addition, a special edition of Ifkids Theater’s musical classic “Tales of the Drum Valley” will be staged on the opening day to celebrate the event.
“Our festival is set to foster a greater appreciation for art among youngster through spectacular performances and participation,” Lin said. “With such a smorgasbord of entertainment on offer, this summer is certain to be an unforgettable one for the children of New Taipei City.” (YHC-JSM)
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