Shengping Theater Introduction
The Shengping Theater traces its origins back to 1916, starting as a wooden stage next to the old market, primarily featuring Taiwanese opera, with a capacity of around three to four hundred people. In 1927, the stage collapsed due to age, and the operators rebuilt the theater in 1934 at the same location, covering an area of approximately 200 ping. It became the largest theater in Taiwan during the Japanese occupation period. However, due to severe population outflow from Jiufen, it ceased operations in 1986. Its unique architecture has made it a filming location for many movies, including "A Wonderful Time," "City of Sadness," and "Blue Mountain Coffee," capturing classic scenes. Not only is it the oldest theater in northern Taiwan, but it is also a must-visit attraction for tourists in Jiufen. Initially constructed as a wooden building, it was renovated in the 1960s into a hollow wall structure, with surrounding buildings dating back to the Japanese occupation. It has become a popular spot for artists to film. The New Taipei City Government's Cultural Affairs Bureau and Tourism Bureau later restored this historic building, reinstating its function as a cinema. Inside, there is a display of old projectors donated by the Wu family and a nostalgic arrangement from the 1950s by Mr. Lai from the Jiufen Local Museum, evoking the atmosphere of the old theater. Currently, the operations of Shengping Theater are managed by the New Taipei City Gold Museum.
