TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — From April to June, the Taipei Performing Arts Center will present a dynamic lineup of co-produced performances, including solo dramas and musical theater.
Shows include “Cinderfella,” “The OB Idol,” “Tears on Fire the Musical,” and “Take A Quack At It! The Ugly Duckling’s Quack-a-Lackin’ Rock n’ Roll Se-quail.” These productions explore themes of personal resilience, nostalgia, human connection, and self-discovery.
TPAC CEO Wang Wen-yi (王文儀) shared that this season’s offerings are intended to reflect the complexities of life, offering performances that not only entertain but also serve as a form of protection and understanding for the audience.
“Cinderfella” returns after its sold-out premiere in 2023 in an expanded version from April 11 to 20. Presented by The Party Theatre Group, this solo performance tells the story of Taiwanese writer Feng Feng (馮馮), whose life was marked by dramatic shifts from military officer and interpreter to prisoner and beggar.
Drawing connections between Taiwan’s White Terror era and contemporary struggles with gender identity and historical amnesia, “Cinderfella” explores the power of human resilience amid political oppression.
Next, “The OB Idol” takes the stage from April 24-27. Produced by 3Aqua Production, the musical follows the story of five former boy band members who rose to fame in the 1990s, only to see their careers abruptly end after their agency collapsed.
Now middle-aged and far from their pop-star prime, the group is reunited by Lin Tzu-wen (林子文), once their heartthrob and now a music producer eager to reignite their past success. With humor, nostalgia, and emotional depth, “The OB Idol” offers a rollercoaster of laughter and tears, inviting audiences to reflect on dreams, lost and found.
“Tears on Fire the Musical,” adapted from the public television series of the same name, will take the stage from April 27 to May 4. Set against the backdrop of a fire brigade, the musical explores the intense life-and-death moments faced by firefighters.
With rock music that mirrors the passion of the story and immersive stage effects, the production pays tribute to the heroic individuals who risk their lives to save others. High-altitude rescues, a real fire truck, helicopter suspensions, and a 1:1 replica of an ambulance offer an authentic, gripping portrayal of the firefighters' world.
The season concludes with “Take A Quack At It!” on June 28 and 29. This rock musical is inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved tale “The Ugly Duckling.”
The family-friendly production follows Hsiao Fei (曉飛), a young duck determined to become a rock star. Inspired by his idol, who achieved fame, Hsiao embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
Along the way, he uncovers the truth about his idol and faces challenges that test his resolve. Featuring a dynamic mix of rock genres, from heavy metal to blues, country, jazz, and gothic rock, the musical offers an energetic soundtrack and explores themes of idolization, personal growth, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
