The Taiwan Club performance revives 1950s Taiwanese culture through dance and attire, blending tradition with modern expression
Dressed in elegant “qipao” and vintage-inspired suits, Taiwan Club performers stepped onto the BYU–Hawaii stage; some dancers gracefully moving with fans as they brought the charm of 1950s Taiwan to life. Flowing fabrics, gentle fan movements and synchronized steps reflected a blend of Chinese influence and modern expression, each motion telling a story of culture, history and evolving identity.
The clothing Taiwan Club chose represents Taiwan in the 1950s, said Chi-Ning “Lindsey” Wang, a senior majoring in accounting from Taiwan and the club’s president. She said the 1950s in Taiwan had strong cultural influence from ancient China due to immigration.
Wang said the women’s one-piece dress known as the “qipao” reflects Chinese influence. “The original design was loose and long, but during the old Shanghai era, it became more fitted to show the beauty of Chinese and Taiwanese people,” she explained. For men, she said they wear button-down shirts with suspenders, coats and slacks.
Shan-Ni “Sunny” Liao, a senior majoring in business management from Taiwan and the vice president, said that as a performer she felt the need to follow the choreographer’s direction. “I think it’s very interesting that because of Culture Night I get to practice the dance and interact with people from different cultures,” Liao said.
Martina Mariano, a senior in construction and facilities management from Utah and the club’s choreographer, said the club’s presidency sent her an inspiration video to set the tone for the choreography, especially for the men’s Taiwanese pop dance. “I learned what I could then adjusted it for them,” she said.
Mariano said she chose steps that are easier to execute. “You don’t want to make it too complicated, especially since Culture Night performances are shorter this year. You want it to look good but still be easy to learn and perform,” she said.
