Taiwanese Glove Puppetry - Voice Acting
From a young age, I was captivated by Taiwanese glove puppetry, watching countless shows with my father. The magic of one person bringing to life over a thousand characters fascinated me. This passion stayed with me through my education and life’s ups and downs.
Inspired by this art form, I aspired to be a professional voice actor and submitted recordings to a Taiwanese puppetry company. Although I wasn't selected, my passion never waned. I pursued a career in environmental and mechanical engineering, becoming a researcher in renewable thermal design and a thermal engineer in consumer electronics.
Despite my career path, my love for voice acting remains strong. In my leisure time, I recreate classic scenes and characters from Jin Guang puppetry shows. These performances continue to inspire me, and through them, I aim to celebrate the rich tradition of Taiwanese glove puppetry.
Shu Dao Xing: The Enigmatic Swordsman | Voice-Acting Performance
In this video, I delve into the profound and enigmatic character of Shu Dao Xing from the renowned Taiwanese puppet show series, “Pili Glove Puppetry Show” (霹靂布袋戲). Through the traditional art of entrance poems (定場詩), I bring Shu Dao Xing’s intricate blend of strength, melancholy, and chivalrous spirit to life. This poem introduces his formidable presence and explores the deeper meanings of his journey and inner struggles. Join me as I present a voice-acting performance that captures the essence of this noble swordsman.
嘯引九霄伏龍起 (Xiào yǐn jiǔ xiāo fú lóng qǐ): This line evokes a powerful image of a dragon rising from the depths, its roar echoing through the heavens. It suggests that Shu Dao Xing possesses immense strength and potential.
愁披天地劍霜吟 (Chóu pī tiān dì jiàn shuāng yín): This line contrasts the grandeur of the previous line with a sense of melancholy. The image of “sorrow draped across the heavens” suggests that Shu Dao Xing carries a heavy burden, perhaps a tragic past or a deep sense of responsibility.
今朝鵬翼蓋古今 (Jīn zhāo péng yì gài gǔ jīn): This line shifts the focus to Shu Dao Xing’s vastness and influence. The image of a “鹏翼” (peng wing) covering “古今” (ancient and modern times) suggests that he is a towering figure who has left his mark on the world.
一論俠刀蜀道行 (Yī lùn xiá dāo Shǔ dào xíng): This line serves as a summary of the previous three, emphasizing Shu Dao Xing’s identity as a righteous swordsman who walks the path of the 蜀道 (Shu Road), a metaphor for the difficult and often perilous journey of a 俠客 (xiákè, or chivalrous hero).
Yù Xīng Yí: The Celestial Strategist | Voice-Acting Performance
In this video, I delve into the intricate character of Yù Xīng Yí from the acclaimed Taiwanese puppet show series “Jin Guang Glove Puppetry Show” (金光布袋戲). Through the traditional entrance poem (定場詩), I bring to life Yù Xīng Yí’s complex persona as a reclusive and brilliant strategist. This poem introduces his enigmatic presence and explores the deeper meanings of his dual nature, vast knowledge, and profound influence. Join me as I present a voice-acting performance that captures the essence of this celestial and wise character.
- “觀星望斗慣幽居” (Guān xīng wàng dǒu guàn yōu jū): Yù Xīng Yí lives a solitary life, spending his time observing the stars and constellations, indicating his reclusive nature and adherence to the Sea Realm’s seclusion rules.
- “一片神鱗渡太虛” (Yī piàn shén lín dù tài xū): This line alludes to Yù Xīng Yí’s mystical origins and his ability to traverse the universe. The “divine scale” represents both the Taixu Sea Realm’s scale and Yù Xīng Yí himself, signifying his role in leading the Sea Realm into the world.
- “伯仲分時同綬冕” (Bó zhòng fēn shí tóng shòu miǎn): This line suggests Yù Xīng Yí’s dual nature, possessing both wisdom and authority, shared with an equal like Meng Qisun. It highlights his brotherly affection and his role in breaking traditions.
- “虹蜺過處盡疆輿” (Hóng yǔ guò chù jìn jiāng yú): “Hongyi” (rainbow) represents Yù Xīng Yí’s vast influence, extending wherever there is water. It symbolizes his comprehensive knowledge and control, marking the Finny Tribe’s domain.
Shen Gu Wen Huang: The Mysterious Sage | Voice-Acting Performance
In this video, I explore the deep and complex character of Shen Gu Wen Huang from the acclaimed Taiwanese puppet show series “Jin Guang Glove Puppetry Show” (金光布袋戲). Through his entrance poem (定場詩), I bring to life his profound wisdom, martial prowess, and internal struggles. This poem not only introduces his enigmatic persona but also delves into deeper themes of detachment from worldly pursuits and harmony with nature. Join me as I present a voice-acting performance that captures the essence of this brilliant and troubled strategist.
- “功名爵祿盡迷津” (Gōng míng jué lù jìn mí jīn): Fame, fortune, and power lead to confusion and entrapment. This line emphasizes the futility and dangers of pursuing worldly success.
- “貝葉菩提不受塵” (Bèi yè pú tí bù shòu chén): The bodhi leaf and Buddhist scriptures remain untainted by dust, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and purity, untouched by worldly concerns.
- “久住青山無白眼” (Jiǔ zhù qīng shān wú bái yǎn): Living long in the green mountains, free from disdainful glances. This line represents tranquility and seclusion, away from societal judgments.
- “巢禽穴獸四時馴” (Cháo qín xué shòu sì shí xùn): Birds in their nests and beasts in their dens are tamed by the changing seasons. This line depicts a harmonious existence in nature, with acceptance of the natural cycle of life.
Shi Yànwén vs. Cáng Jìngrén: Tragic Rivals | Voice-Acting Performance
In this video, I delve into the intricate and tragic rivalry between Shi Yànwén and Cáng Jìngrén from the renowned Taiwanese puppet show series “Jin Guang Glove Puppetry Show” (金光布袋戲). Through their entrance poem (定場詩), I explore the deep-seated conflict, intense hatred, and the futile struggle that defines their relationship. This poem introduces their complex characters and delves into profound themes of revenge, regret, and the possibility of reconciliation. Join me as I present a voice-acting performance that captures the essence of these iconic figures.
- “回憶迷惘殺戮多” (Huíyì míwǎng shā lù duō): Memories of confusion and bloodshed abound. This line sets the stage for their entangled history of conflict and violence, highlighting the regret and chaos of their past.
- “往事情仇待如何” (Wǎngshì qíng chóu dài rúhé): How can the grievances of the past be resolved? This line raises the question of whether reconciliation is possible, emphasizing their deep-seated animosity.
- “絹寫黑詩無限恨” (Juǎn xiě hēi shī wúxiàn hèn): Endless hatred is written in black ink on silk. This line underscores the intensity and permanence of their hatred, profoundly ingrained and seemingly unending.
- “夙興夜寐枉徒勞” (Sùxīng yèmè wàng túláo): Rising early and sleeping late, all in vain. This line highlights the futility of their conflict, emphasizing that their relentless struggle has led only to pain and suffering.
Murong Ning: The Refined Wanderer | Voice-Acting Performance
In this video, I explore the multifaceted character of Murong Ning from the celebrated Taiwanese puppet show series “Jin Guang Glove Puppetry Show” (金光布袋戲). Through his entrance poem (定場詩), I reveal his refined yet enigmatic personality, capturing the essence of his journey through life. This poem introduces his graceful demeanor and delves into deeper themes of youth, adventure, introspection, and the pursuit of perfection. Join me as I present a voice-acting performance that brings Murong Ning to life with profound meaning and elegance.
- “歲月年華，醉態拈花” (Suìyuè nián huá, zuìtài niān huā): Years of youth, in a drunken state, picking flowers. This line paints a vivid picture of a carefree youth enjoying the beauty of nature with abandon and revelry.
- “小風時雨摘雲霞，堂前燕來誰人家” (Xiǎo fēng shí yǔ zhāi yúnxiá, táng qián yàn lái shuí rén jiā): Gentle breeze and timely rain pluck clouds and mist, swallows come to the hall, whose house is this? This line shifts to a serene natural scene, suggesting a sense of home and belonging with a touch of mystery.
- “行天涯，扇風雅” (Xíng tiānyá, shàn fēng yǎ): Traveling across the world, fanning the breeze with elegance. This line conveys a life of adventure and exploration, emphasizing grace and refinement.
- “獨倚晚沙，嘆劍無瑕” (Dú yǐ wǎn shā, tàn jiàn wúxiá): Standing alone on the evening sand, lamenting the sword’s flawlessness. This line contrasts with earlier exuberance, introducing introspection and the longing for unattainable perfection.
Shi Yanwen's Sacrifice: A Brother's Love and Regret | Voice-Acting Performance
In this video, I bring to life the poignant and dramatic scene between Shi Yanwen and Cang Jing Ren from the acclaimed Taiwanese puppet show series “Jin Guang Glove Puppetry Show” (金光布袋戲). Through my voice-acting performance, I capture the depth of Shi Yanwen’s emotional monologue and the intense sacrifice he makes for his brother. This scene highlights the themes of regret, duty, and the fine line between righteousness and evil. Join me as I delve into the profound story of these two iconic characters and their tragic bond.
Shi Yanwen and Cang Jing Ren’s Relationship: Shi Yanwen, a gentle and noble Confucian gentleman, has long been entangled in a bitter rivalry with his twin brother, Cang Jing Ren, the Miaojiang God of War. Despite their enmity, Shi never intended to kill his brother, hoping instead for his redemption. The revelation of their true relationship led to a series of emotional and physical confrontations, culminating in a profound moment of sacrifice.
The Climactic Scene: In the caves of Nine Veins Peak, Shi Yanwen and Cang Jing Ren face each other in a final confrontation. Understanding his brother’s intent to die, Shi Yanwen strikes Cang Jing Ren’s pressure point, causing him to fall unconscious. In a selfless act, Shi exchanges clothes with his brother, leaves a letter, and departs, willing to die in his place to protect him from their pursuers.
Shi Yanwen’s Monologue: “Life is indeed full of helplessness and sorrow at every step. I hate that I cannot be a responsible father. I hate that I cannot change the past. I hate myself for being Shi Yanwen. Like you, I am also living under the expectations and scrutiny of others. The world is full of constant warfare; who can be deemed righteous, and who can be defined as evil? Like you and me, righteousness and evil are just a fine line apart. We can only bear the regrets that fate has brought us, but life is for us to decide. I will first draw the Miao soldiers who are hunting you. Once Cang Jing Ren is dead, their pursuit of you will end… My brother, stop living for others and live for yourself.”
Voice Acting Analysis: In this famous monologue, Shi Yanwen reflects on the burdens and sorrows of life. My voice acting attempts to capture the depth of his regret and the weight of his responsibilities. The tone is somber and reflective, emphasizing his inner turmoil and the sacrifices he has made. The shift from sorrow to resolve is crucial, as Shi Yanwen decides to draw the Miao soldiers away from Cang Jing Ren, highlighting his selflessness and love for his brother.
Qiao Rulai's Enlightenment: Journey to the Bodhidharma Jin Guang Tower | Voice-Acting Performance
In this video, I bring to life the profound journey of Qiao Rulai from the Taiwanese puppet show series “Jin Guang Glove Puppetry Show” (金光布袋戲). Through my voice-acting performance, I capture the essence of Qiao Rulai’s quest to enter the Bodhidharma Jin Guang Tower, a journey that symbolizes enlightenment and the pursuit of inner peace. This scene highlights the deep philosophical themes of Buddhism, showcasing Qiao Rulai’s realization that the Buddhist kingdom is within the heart. Join me as I present a voice-acting performance that brings this iconic scene to life.
Story Overview: The Bodhidharma Jin Guang Tower, a portal between the Buddhist kingdom and the Central Plains, is a central element in the series. Qiao Rulai’s quest to enter the tower represents his pursuit of enlightenment and his mission to protect the Central Plains from the demon world. Through his journey, Qiao Rulai realizes that the true Buddhist kingdom is found within the heart, a profound realization that transforms his understanding of the world and his place in it.
Qiao Rulai’s Monologue: 經曰地獄十八層，地藏亦有云: The scripture says, “There are eighteen levels of hell.” Dizang also said, 地獄未空，誓不成佛: “I swear not to become a Buddha if the eighteen levels of hell is not empty. 發此大願，立地成佛: Making this great vow, becoming a Buddha on the spot, 乃因親入十八層中，得見佛國: is because entering the eighteen levels in person allows one to see the Buddhist kingdom.” 弟子俏如來求進達摩金光塔: Disciple Qiao Rulai, seeking entry into Bodhidharma Jin Guang Tower.
Feng Xiaoyao: From Intoxication to Sobriety | Voice-Acting Performance
In this video, I bring to life the poignant journey of Feng Xiaoyao from the Taiwanese puppet show series “Jin Guang Glove Puppetry Show” (金光布袋戲). Through my voice-acting performance, I capture Feng Xiaoyao’s emotional monologue that reflects his struggles with addiction, the ironic twist of the ‘Drunken Dream’ technique, and his ultimate journey to sobriety upon returning to Fenghua Xueyue. This scene highlights themes of inner turmoil, personal growth, and the search for true freedom. Join me as I present a voice-acting performance that delves deep into the complexities of this iconic character.
Story Overview: Feng Xiaoyao, a member of the Fenghua Xueyue group, embarks on a journey marked by emotional struggle and personal transformation. Initially turning to alcohol as a means of coping after leaving Fenghua Xueyue, Feng Xiaoyao practices the ‘Drunken Dream’ technique, which ironically prevents him from truly experiencing intoxication. His journey comes full circle as he returns to Fenghua Xueyue and finds the strength to quit drinking, signifying his growth and newfound clarity.
Feng Xiaoyao’s Monologue: “離開風花雪月的那一年我開始喝酒: The year I left the Fenghua Xueyue group, I started drinking. 因為練了醉生夢死就只能一輩子醉生夢死: Because I practiced the ‘Drunken Dream’ technique, I can only live a life of ‘Drunken Dreams’ forever. 我常在想如果能醉一輩子那也很好無憂無慮: I often think that if I could be drunk forever, it would be great, carefree. 但是我越喝越清醒原來練了醉生夢死的最大處罰就是醉不了: But the more I drink, the more sober I become. It turns out the biggest punishment for practicing ‘Drunken Dream’ is that I can’t get drunk. 但我沒想過回到風花雪月的這一年我卻戒酒了: But I never thought that the year I returned to the Fenghua Xueyue group, I would quit drinking.”
Performing Art - Xiangsheng and storytelling
