3-D projection show lights up Christmas in Pingtung

2015/12/14

An annual 3-D projection program using the latest lighting and sound effects to celebrate Christmas and spotlight one of the oldest churches in Taiwan kicks off Dec. 10 in Pingtung County.

The 10-minute visual extravaganza features a cornucopia of images from much-loved Bibles stories and children’s fairytales, as well as highlights from local festivals staged over the year. It will take place every 30 minutes between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. on weekends until Dec. 24 at Wanchin Basilica in Wanluan Township.

Pingtung County Magistrate Pan Meng-an said the local government is looking forward to taking the event to new heights in its third year. “Given our previous shows attracted 200,000, this edition’s religious theme is certain to draw a record number of participants from home and abroad.”

Echoing Pan’s remarks, Yin Feng-lan, director of the county’s Department of Information and Tourism, said the event is a must for visitors to the region. “We have even scheduled a Christmas Eve session at 11:50 p.m. for families and tourists to come together and create unforgettable Yuletide memories with distinctive southern Taiwan flavor.”

Constructed in 1861 by Spanish priests from the Philippines, the Roman Catholic church was afforded the title of basilica by Pope John Paul II in late 1984 in recognition of its great religious, historic and artistic significance.

Wanchin’s Rev. Hsu Ching-hsien said the church turns 154 this year and as part of celebratory activities, a Christmas tree with 154 lights has been erected in the courtyard. “It is a spectacular sight that helps remind us of the spiritual value of this time of the year and the church’s role in the community.”

Other activities taking place in conjunction with the 3-D projection show include concerts, gingerbread cookie-making workshop, group wedding and manger decoration competition.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=240068&ctNode=2194&mp=9)