Melbourne: Taiwan’s participation in the Melbourne Fringe this year through the 6th Fringe Focus Taiwan program offered a unique experience for all age groups, featuring performances that included children under two years old and seniors over 65, as announced by the Ministry of Culture on Tuesday. “Free Steps – Swinging Years,” crafted by Taiwanese choreographer Su Wei-chia, was a collaborative effort involving 59 Melbourne-based dancers aged 65 and older, with the oldest participant being 90. The ministry highlighted that the piece embodies various life experiences through dance and emphasizes diversity in life through physical expression.

According to Focus Taiwan, choreographer Su Wei-chia expressed that the biggest challenge in creating the piece was “believing they can do it.” Su recounted that initially, the participants were self-conscious and hesitant about dancing, but as rehearsals advanced, they gained confidence and mastery over their movements, showcasing a powerful and graceful performance that exuded wisdom.

Meanwhile, “We Need A Flower,” designed by Double and Cross Theater Group, focused on babies under 24 months old and their adult caretakers, according to Melbourne Fringe’s website. This performance, inspired by an Italian nursery rhyme, examined life’s cycle and the interconnectedness of all things through improvised dance, tactile costumes, shifting light and sound, and playful interactions. The 35-minute performance took place on October 17 and 18.

Another piece titled “Free Steps – Grand Canyon,” also choreographed by Su, featured a dancer interacting with a sheet of paper. This pop-up performance was showcased from October 1-9 at various Melbourne Fringe events held at Queen Victoria Market, Fed Square, and Melbourne Museum.

During the opening ceremony for Fringe Focus Taiwan on October 14, Fringe Melbourne CEO Simon Abrahams expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Culture for co-organizing the event and conveyed hopes for continued collaboration to bring Taiwan’s cultural and creative performances to both Australian and global audiences. Ray Lu, Director-General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Melbourne, remarked that Taiwan’s involvement in the Melbourne Fringe facilitates artistic dialogue, helps define its identity, and connects with the international community through the “universal language” of imagination.