Windmill Theater Pingtung Troupe's 'Story Theater' Sparks Children's Imagination

On June 13, the Windmill Theater Pingtung Troupe presented 'Story Theater' at the Pingtung Public Library Main Branch. The performance of 'The Adventure of Tapioca Kingdom' follows the adventurous Gulliver as he enters a mysterious and fantastical Tapioca Kingdom. Familiar everyday items were transformed into surprising stage characters—children burst into laughter when the king, portrayed by a pair of blue-and-white slippers, made his entrance. Other household objects like telephones, mosquito bats, and hair dryers also appeared on stage, encouraging children to discover creativity in daily life.

Another production, 'The Four Divine Turtles,' tells the story of the Jade Emperor assigning four turtles—symbols of fortune, prosperity, longevity, and joy—to hold up the sky. When their friendship fractures due to conflict, the sky begins to tilt, threatening to collapse the earth. Through humorous storytelling and fairy-tale imagination, the tale guides children to reflect on the importance of cooperation and tolerance.

Troupe member Ni Yi-Xuan shared that performing with puppets for the first time was a major challenge, requiring not only character expression but also bringing emotional life to the puppets. Jian Wen-Jie, who played Gulliver, noted that the biggest challenge was real-time interaction with children, requiring constant adaptation of pace and performance based on audience reactions.

Windmill Theater Artistic Director Ren Jian-Cheng emphasized that the 'Pingtung Performing Arts Rooting Promotion Project' aims not only to train performers but also to enhance local talent’s diverse theatrical skills through long-term training and practical experience. The goal is to bring performing arts into communities, schools, and families. The troupe plans to continue developing original works rooted in Pingtung, making art a part of children’s everyday lives.