By hannover-web.com During an interview on October 1st, Lin Jinzhan, the chairman of the Meizhou Mazu Temple Board, shared his thoughts on the ongoing initiatives to innovate Mazu culture. He remarked, “For many years, we have been dedicated to redefining Mazu culture, using modern interpretations to impart new significance for today’s society.”
On that same day, the cultural and artistic performance titled “Impression of Mazu” premiered at the permanent venue of the World Mazu Culture Forum on Meizhou Island. The performance, rooted in Mazu culture, gained a unique authenticity with the presence of the Mazu deity in attendance.
Lin highlighted that the tradition of “playing theater to honor the gods” has deep roots in Mazu culture. It has long been a practice for devotees to invite the living essence of the Mazu statue to partake in theater performances, particularly during festive occasions. The inaugural performance prominently featured the Mazu deity.
“Impression of Mazu,” which runs for 66 minutes, revolves around the Mazu spirit characterized by “virtue, kindness, and great love.” The production incorporates advanced technology, including a digital mist curtain system and striking 3D holographic projections, to narrate the legendary journey of Mazu from human to divine being. This endeavor is a collaborative effort between the Meizhou Island Administration and the Sanxiang Impression company.
Wang Sheng, president of Sanxiang Impression, stressed that “Impression of Mazu” uniquely fuses digital technology with artistic creativity, creating China’s first “parallel illusion” stage. “This performance is not merely an audiovisual spectacle; it embodies a cultural dialogue that transcends both time and space.”
Lin Jinzhan conveyed his enthusiasm for the project, viewing it as a successful effort to enrich the contemporary interpretation and artistic representation of Mazu culture through innovative technological approaches. “I hope that more people will attend ‘Impression of Mazu.’ I believe it will not only help them understand and appreciate Mazu culture but also contribute to the preservation and promotion of the Mazu spirit.”
