Taichung City Chung Shan Hall kicked off its "2026 Curtain Call: Come Play!" series on October 29 with "Lovely People", a Taiwanese-language play for young audiences performed by Our Theatre, a Taiwan Top performing arts group. The free performance drew over 1,000 students and teachers from across Taichung, filling the theater with lively interaction and laughter. Chun-Fu Shih, Deputy Director of the Cultural Affairs Bureau of Taichung City Government, attended the event and said the bureau is working to fulfill Chung Shan Hall's vision as a "theater for all" by introducing young people to the performing arts. In partnership with the Education Bureau and leading performing arts groups, the bureau is presenting four "Let's Explore Theater" events from October through December. Transportation subsidies are also available so students can enjoy live theater at no cost and discover the excitement of the performing arts.

 The Cultural Affairs Bureau noted that registration for " Curtain Call: Come Play!" was met with an enthusiastic response. More than 1,000 students and teachers from 17 schools attended the opening performance, including Sih Zhang Li Junior High School, Chang Yi Elementary School, Wuri Junior High School, the Junior High Division of Long Jin High School, Xiyuan High School, Xuguang Elementary School, Shuang Shi Junior High School, Dong Guang Elementary School, Chong Lun Junior High School, Dong Hai Elementary School, Da Ye Junior High School, Chung Shan Junior High School, Cheng Gong Elementary School, Xie He Elementary School, National Feng Yuan Commercial High School, Yong Chun Elementary School and Zhishan Junior High School. The strong turnout reflects the schools' support for arts education and opportunities for students to experience live performances.

 A student surnamed Lee from Xiyuan High School, visiting Chung Shan Hall for the first time, shared their excitement: "Our Theatre completely changed how I think about stage plays. I never knew the performing arts could be so much fun. I'd love to come back more often". The experience enabled students discover that a theater is more than a place to watch performances. It is also a welcoming space where they can participate, explore and connect with the arts.

 Taichung City Dadun Cultural Center explained that "Lovely People" is a Taiwanese-language play created by Our Theatre specifically for young audiences. Through games, quizzes, puppetry and object theater, four performers guide students through four stories exploring local memories, identity and cultural diversity. With its playful, interactive approach, the production breaks down the barrier between performers and the audience. As students watch and take part, they are encouraged to reconnect with their local heritage, consider different life experiences and perspectives, and develop their ability to listen, understand and express themselves. Together, they explore the stories and possibilities that will shape their generation's future.

 In addition, the 2026 Curtain Call: Come Play! series will continue with a lineup of engaging performing arts experiences. On November 10, MAD Theater, the resident company of Chung Shan Hall, will present a movement workshop led by Spanish choreographer Daniel Navarro Lorenzo. On November 13, students will have the opportunity to attend an educational rehearsal of the company’s latest production, Industrial Madness. On December 18, Wind Ensemble, an Outstanding Performing Arts Group of Taoyuan City, will bring the series to a grand finale with a special rehearsal showcase featuring highlights from its acclaimed production, Princess 100% 2: Birthday Surprise. This year’s series spans theatre, dance, and music, inviting students to explore the arts and experience the creative process through diverse forms of artistic expression, opening the door to new ideas and inspiring possibilities.

For more than 30 years, Taichung City Chung Shan Hall has been part of the community. Guided by its vision of being a "theater for all", it continues to provide an accessible, welcoming space for the performing arts, bringing art into everyday life and making theater a natural part of the city's cultural scene. For more information on upcoming performances, visit the official Chung Shan Hall website(https://hall.culture.taichung.gov.tw/WatchShow/ShowInfo).