On October 21, students from the Tunghai University Chinese Language Center stepped beyond the classroom and visited the National Taichung Theater for a cultural journey that combined an architectural tour with an introduction to Beijing opera (Jingju).
That day, we were not merely admiring a building, but experiencing the living breath of culture. Designed around the concepts of “caves” and “flowing air,” the theater speaks through its graceful curves. The moment we entered, we felt as though we were walking inside a piece of living art. Guided by the docent, students observed the absence of straight lines and discovered how spatial design itself can become a form of artistic expression.
Later, in the rehearsal room, Ms. Chu led a captivating opera appreciation session. Through lively explanations and interaction, students were introduced to the Chinese philosophical idea of “When the moon is full, it begins to wane; when water overflows, it spills.” This imagery symbolizes the natural cycle of prosperity reaching its peak before decline, reflecting the rise and fall of eras and the rhythm of life itself. It provided students with a profound cultural foundation for their upcoming opera experience.
Through this workshop, students not only gained insight into the ancient art of Peking Opera but also discovered the soul of culture within language learning. On this day, art, language, and thought intertwined—revealing that learning Mandarin is not merely about mastering vocabulary and grammar, but about opening a window to understand the depth of Eastern culture.
