National Taichung Theater

The front of National Taichung Theater as seen from Charlotte Park.

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TAICHUNG’S MODERN AND SUSTAINABLE BEACON OF THE ARTS

The National Taichung Theater is an iconic structure located in the heart of Taichung. As an emblem of modern architecture, it’s not just a theater; it’s a testament to art, culture, and sustainable innovation.

The front facade of National Taichung Theater is simple with flowing edges.
The first-floor lobby is located in a large cavernous space.
Viewed from one of its corners, the National Taichung Theater appears as a giant rectangular structure.
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Crafted by the celebrated architect Toyo Ito in tandem with Cecil Balmond at Arup AGU, the National Taichung Theater’s design captures the imagination. Forget straight lines and conventional design; the theater ditches beams, columns, and right angles and instead embraces a unique continuous curved wall design reminiscent of natural caverns but with a clean, space-age feel. 

White conical columns rise up inside of the theater.
On the first floor, a wide ramp leads up a very gentle slope.
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Dubbed the “sound cave”, this unique network of shapes facilitates the flow of sound, as well as light, air, and water throughout the interior. Paired with the building’s transparent glass walls, this design blends the boundaries between the structure and nature, integrating the theater with the natural world outside, while also stimulating the senses of those walking through the building.   

Small circular floor vents can be seen on the first floor of the National Taichung Theater.
Another expansive lobby is visible; on a right, there is a small canal filled with water.
In another large open space, a skylight radiates gentle light down into the space.
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But National Taichung Theater’s innovations don’t stop at just design and art. The theater is a beacon of sustainability. Its radiant cooling floor design leverages chilled water pipes and floor vents to keep the interior comfortably cool and reduces the need for traditional air-conditioning. 

Uniquely shaped sculpted benches offer visitors a place to sit in the theater's garden area.
A tourist sits on a bench surrounded by large curved cement shapes at the National Taichung Theater's Rooftop Garden.
The name of largest performing arts venue, the Grand Theater is displayed on the wall with a stylistic yet minimalist design.
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The theater’s vast space, spanning over 57,685 square meters, offers diversity in its performance venues. From the majestic Grand Theater and the intimate Black Box to the expansive Outdoor Plaza, and the serene Sky Garden on the sixth floor, each space empowers performers to tell their stories in a unique way. Outdoor events under the starry sky or a performance in the cozy theater connected to an open-air amphitheater offer new opportunities for creativity.

The outdoor fountain and theater are elegantly illuminated at night.
Visitors rest on benches in one of the large atriums of National Taichung Theater.
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So, whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a cultural aficionado, or simply seeking a unique experience, the National Taichung Theater offers a unique journey through the arts. For information on upcoming events and more, visit National Taichung Theater’s official website. Let your senses be awakened and your imagination roam free.

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