As part of a cultural exchange program "Center Stage," initiated by the U.S. Department of State, Taiwan's Resident Island Dance Theatre (滯留島舞蹈劇場) was selected to perform and participate in cultural exchanges at various performing arts venues in the U.S. for three weeks between July and August this year. Resident Island Dance Theatre is considered one of the first performing groups from Taiwan to be chosen and it is also the group’s first performance in the US.
Resident Island Dance Theatre began its tour in Manhattan, New York, traveled through North Carolina, Washington, D.C., and ended in Massachusetts. Their production “Ice Age” is an international inclusive dance collaboration that explores the different ways that people support each other, each in their own cultural environments.
The dance group also performed at two major dance festivals, the American Dance Festival and the Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival, in the US. Founder Chang Chung-an (張忠安) said that although both festivals are not held in the capital city yet the festivals are able to attract a large number of visitors who appreciate and understand the diversity and artistry of creation.
In addition to touring major venues and festivals, Resident Island Dance Theatre also observed the performances of other local groups and interacted with local audiences, government officials, and arts and cultural partners on issues such as human rights, freedom, immigration, and gun violence.
Center Stage is a groundbreaking cultural diplomacy initiative that connects foreign artists with American communities through the performing arts. It brings international performing artists throughout the United States, conducting lectures, workshops, master classes and more.