Tenn , Nga-i
(2014)
A Glocalised National Narrative:
A Siraya-based Discourse In The Tai-gi Puppet
Play Blitzkrieg Siraya.
International Journal of Asia Pacific Studies (IJAPS), 10 (2).
pp. 36-72.
ISSN ISSN: 1823-6243
Abstract
Globalisation, which has become a buzzword in current debates, is said to
deconstruct and replace nations in "the era of post-nationalism." On the other
hand, fear of being inundated with globalism rekindles local consciousness,
forging more "imagined communities" that are co-constituted by interlaced local
liaisons. As a consequence, nationalism does not fade out, but undergoes a series
of transformations. National narratives re-emerge with varied facets and more
localised substantiation. Blitzkrieg Siraya, a Tai-gi puppet play marks this new
breed of "glocalised national narrative"—a new discourse fermented by both
globalism and localism. Debuting in 2010, Blitzkrieg Siraya receives much
acclamation. It tells of how descendants of Han immigrants and Siraya, a lowland
Austronesian people populating southern Taiwan, transcend mutual animosity and
fight together against an evil spirit to defend their homeland. The narrative gives
a vivid picture of Siraya's matrifocal culture, challenging Han-dominated ethnic
stereotypes and male-centric gender bias. Two other factors distinguish Blitzkrieg
Siraya from other Taiwan-made puppet plays. Unlike Taiwan's traditional puppet
shows, which are confined to Chinese framework, Blitzkrieg Siraya is based on
Taiwan's historical context. Moreover, it is the first Tai-gi puppet play that
highlights Sirayans, who were barely mentioned in the Chinese-Han-dominant
discourse. Blitzkrieg Siraya re-addresses Taiwan as a multi-ethnic society with
solid Austronesian roots.
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