Taipei: The Golden Bough Theatre put on a special performance of “She is So Lovely…” in Taipei on Saturday to thank those who supported its 16-year nationwide tour, which aimed to bring the joy of performing arts to towns across Taiwan.

According to Focus Taiwan, a few hundred people were seated and waiting for the show-a singing and dancing comedy about the trials of love-staged next to the Liberty Square Archway when Golden Bough founder Wang Rong-yu appeared on stage at 7 p.m. Saturday. “The dream has come true,” Wang said in English, adding a touch of humor by noting that it was rare to hear the language, as Golden Bough’s works are primarily in Taiwanese Hokkien.

Wang, the son of an actress in a Taiwanese opera troupe, expressed his happiness to see people attend the show. He likened it to the performances he grew up watching at temple festivals and local events, which had been staged at school sports fields, community centers, and temples. The special performance began with singer Louise Tsuei’s 1970s hit “God of Love” and featured several classic songs in Taiwanese Hokkien and Mandarin, creating a nostalgic 1950s-1970s backdrop.

After the curtain call, Wang introduced each actor on stage, highlighting several who have been with the tour since its start in 2009. “I have the highest respect for them,” Wang stated, acknowledging the dedication and contribution of the performers throughout the tour.