Fo Guang University Creative and Technology College Invites Teachers from the Buddhist College and Humanities College, Along with External Outstanding Musicians, for an Interdisciplinary Collaboration to Present the "Avatamsaka Sutra Cantata"

Fo Guang University’s Creative and Technology College has gathered expert faculty from the Buddhist College and Humanities College, along with excellent external musicians, for an interdisciplinary collaboration that showcases the creative spirit of Humanistic Buddhism. This project reinterprets the Eastern Buddhist classic, the Avatamsaka Sutra, in the form of a Western-style cantata. The Avatamsaka Sutra Cantata will have its grand premiere on December 30, 2023 (Saturday) at 2:30 PM at the Yilan Performing Arts Hall, offering a cultural feast for the local residents of Yilan.

In late 2022, Fo Guang University selected the Lotus Sutra as the beginning of an interdisciplinary creation and performance of Buddhist scriptures. The cantata presented the meanings of the Lotus Sutra, emphasizing the beauty, goodness, tranquility, and harmony of the human world. Through professional choirs and orchestras, it created a shared experience of collective well-being and prosperity, offering listeners a pure and beautiful artistic experience.

Following the Lotus Sutra's significant role in the development of Buddhist thought, the university has now chosen the Avatamsaka Sutra, another Buddhist classic with a similar exemplary status. Like the Lotus Sutra, this work will be performed in the style of a Western musical and orchestral performance, marking the creation of a second representative work. In 2023, Fo Guang University’s Creative and Technology College continued its efforts in arts, creativity, and interdisciplinary creation, bringing together cross-disciplinary teachers and artists for a year-long collaborative process. The result is the upcoming performance of the Avatamsaka Sutra Cantata on December 30, 2023 (Saturday) at the Yilan Performing Arts Hall.

Fo Guang University President, Dr. He Zhuofei, expressed his delight in witnessing such a creative work, imbued with the characteristics of Humanistic Buddhism, created by the university's interdisciplinary faculty. He extended his highest respect to all those involved in the production and performance. He believes this modern reinterpretation of ancient wisdom will contribute to the promotion and development of culture, creating a new chapter in cultural, educational, religious, and artistic integration.

The Avatamsaka Sutra Cantata features lyrics by Fo Guang University Honorary Professor Xie Daming and music composed by Cai Shengtong. The program includes the following pieces:

• First Half: "Entering the Dharma Realm Gate"; Prologue: "The Avatamsaka Assembly", Scene 1: "Opening the Dharma Door", Scene 2: "Dedication of Merit to the Dharma Realm"
• Second Half: "Walking the Bodhisattva Path"; Scene 3: "Diligently Walking the Buddha Path", Scene 4: "The Dharma Door is Infinite"; Finale: "The Ocean Seal Buddha's Accomplishment".

The performing team includes Artistic Director and Conductor Xie Yuanfu, vocalists Li Rongying, Zhan Zhejun, Lin Wenjun, and Xu Dechong, with choir directors Lin Wenjun, Jin Zhiwei, and Pan Guoqing. The performance will feature the Fo Guang University, Yilan Philharmonic Orchestra, Taipei Shilihe Choir, Lanyu Choir, and Sonar Choir. It promises to be a spectacular event not to be missed.

This performance is free of charge and open to the public. Tickets can be obtained by contacting the secretary of Fo Guang University’s Creative and Technology College, Secretary Zhang at (03-9871000, Ext. 25001), or through ticketing outlets at Yilan Performing Arts Hall.

Fo Guang University Faculty and Staff Ticketing Link: https://reurl.cc/9R280n

Students at Fo Guang University: Please directly visit the Creative and Technology College Office (Yunhui Building, Room U212) to obtain tickets. Thank you.