Performance Reflections
In 2025, Pingpengcao Theatre Troupe presented two major productions. One was their annual ticketed performance, One Thousand and Two Nights. The other was Flower Ninja, a nationwide touring play in Taiwanese supported by the Ministry of Culture. Below are our reflections after watching these performances.
Image Source: Pingpengcao Theatre Troupe Facebook
Chang, Fang-yu
While watching Flower Ninja, I was deeply moved by how the main character, even though not skilled in ninja techniques, saves her father through her passion for floral art. It made me realize that everyone has unique talents and value. We should encourage people to use their strengths instead of focusing only on what they aren't good at. As long as we follow our passions, we can shine on the stage of life.
Chang, Jun-yi
My favorite line from Flower Ninja is: "A true ninja pursues their ideals, not someone else's way of living." The main character's courage to forge her own path, along with the spirit expressed in the scene "A blade of grass, a drop of dew", reminds me to be brave in being myself. We shouldn't shrink back just because we're different—everyone is truly unique.
Pai, Chia-wei
Through interviewing the audience and visiting the rehearsal space, I developed a deep respect for how a theatre operates and how all the roles work together. This experience made me realize that, even though I'm interested in performing, roles like directing or stage design might be where I can really use my talents.
Chuang, Yung-ching
While watching One Thousand and Two Nights, I was deeply moved by the touching music and the reunion scenes. I especially admired the two brothers' resilience in saving the fairy—whenever they failed, they got back up again. Their determination and courage in the face of challenges is a truly inspiring life lesson.
Chuang, Yung-hsiang
I was completely captivated by the detailed sets in One Thousand and Two Nights, which fully immersed me in the thrilling adventure. Watching the main character overcome obstacles, navigate secret doors in the maze, and conquer fears to ultimately save the fairy, I realized the play not only tells an exciting story but also cleverly conveys lessons about life.
Tsai, Yi-syhan
One Thousand and Two Nights feels like a miniature version of life. The dark palaces and secret passages in the play represent the unknowns and fears within us. It showed me that no matter how tough the challenges, with faith and determination, we can overcome difficulties and reach the light. This message is incredibly inspiring to me.
Chen, Hsuan-yun
As a performer in both Flower Ninja and One Thousand and Two Nights, I faced the challenge of learning lines in Hokkien, which I was not familiar with. Although the process was full of obstacles, finally stepping on stage successfully gave me great satisfaction. From my roles, I learned that pursuing what you love doesn't require others' approval. You should bravely chase your dreams and not let elders' expectations hold you back.
Yen, Yi
While watching One Thousand and Two Nights, I was moved by the characters' courage to hold on to hope even in the dark. It also made me reflect on whether I have dreams that I want to achieve no matter how difficult they are. Seeing the backstage crew put so much passion into props, makeup, and hair design gave me even more confidence in pursuing my own dreams.
Huang, Hsuan-yu
One Thousand and Two Nights showed me that theatre can tell a story in a way that makes the audience think, without explaining everything outright. Watching actors around my age convey emotions so perfectly made me feel like I entered another world, experiencing an unforgettable artistic journey.