Taiwan's Dazzling Fire Show - French Environmental Fire Theatre

I have spent the Lunar New Year in Taiwan for several years. With traditions fading, the holiday is merely a long break, making it feel like any ordinary day. Without visiting markets, department stores, or malls, and without traveling or returning to my hometown, I felt no festive atmosphere at all. Today, streets are quieter than usual—no lion dances, parades, or firecrackers—as people are away on trips or have already returned home. The usual traffic has vanished, leaving an eerie silence.

Of course, the reunion dinner is a rare opportunity to gather with family. As a stranger in my own hometown, I returned to my eldest brother’s house to spend New Year’s Eve with them. We gathered around the stove for beautiful moments together. After dinner, I shared photos of Paris I had collected over the years with my nieces until late into the quiet night.

My impression of the New Year is no longer one of wonder. Following the intense presidential election, Taiwanese society seems sluggish or blind to the severe aftermath. Concerns about Taiwan’s future and prospects weigh heavily, especially for those advocating for Taiwanese identity and consensus. This collective confusion or hesitation regarding change makes the holiday feel bittersweet. Yet life goes on. In a democratic society, elections may bring temporary setbacks, but our love for Taiwan is eternal. Spring will come; we must rally and continue striving for our ideals.

The New Year is a time for reunion, spring outings, greetings, or quiet retreat. Recently, Facebook has become a hub for connecting friends and information. Political, social, humanistic, and artistic messages flow freely. Parisian friends often share news from Paris, allowing me to taste its atmosphere while in Taiwan. One piece of information particularly caught my attention: a unique French fire theatre was coming to Tainan for a performance. It was scheduled for the fifth and sixth days of the Lunar New Year at the steps of the City Hall Plaza.

The chance to see this French fire theatre live in southern Taiwan sparked my curiosity. On the sixth day, I visited friends in Tainan, sharing rich lunches and dinners before heading out to watch the show that evening. The dazzling fire show began as the city lights came on. Thousands of spectators waited in anticipation for this unprecedented spectacle. Dramatic fireballs erupted from the City Hall steps. Against the dark starry sky, fire stunts combined with aerial fireworks and sound effects ignited the ancient city. Accompanied by drums and martial arts displays, and themed "Dragon's Breath" for the Year of the Dragon, the performance featured segments titled "Primitive Fire," "Energy of Fire," and "Radiance of Life."

Dramatically, flames and fireworks released light and fire, creating a grand and unprecedented show. The southern audience held their breath, dazzled and amazed. It reached a climax, providing a wonderful time and eternal memories. The ancient city showed great vitality, ending the New Year celebrations on a high note.