To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, Choi Kai Yau College organized 20 college students to appreciate the stage play “Anchors of Wrath and Blood: 1945” at the Small Theatre of Macau Cultural Centre on November 2. This play, adapted from the true stories of Macau citizens during the Anti-Japanese War, uses vivid art to recollect past history and invoke the spirit of those times.
Set against the backdrop of the Anti-Japanese War, the play focuses on Macau’s unique historical role as a “neutral zone” supporting compatriots and participating in national salvation during the war. The plot is adapted from real stories of Macau citizens’ resistance against the Japanese, and through the wonderful performances of the actors, it tells the story of the struggle and perseverance of Macau compatriots during that eventful period, which has profound historical and educational significance. During the performance, the patriotic feelings and fighting spirit of Macau compatriots shown in the play deeply affected the young people present, giving them a more concrete and profound understanding of their hometown’s historical contributions during the Anti-Japanese War. The person in charge of the activity from Choi Kai Yau College said, “We chose the stage play “Anchors of Wrath and Blood: 1945″ hoping that young students can get in touch with the details of Macau’s Anti-Japanese War in a more vivid way beyond textbooks. Through the appeal of art, we aim to inspire their patriotic feelings and sense of historical responsibility. At the same time, it provides an opportunity for college students to participate in collective cultural activities, promote communication among them, and enrich the cultural life of the college.” Students who participated in the activity also expressed that this appreciation was not only an artistic experience but also a profound history lesson. “It turns out that Macau has such touching stories during the Anti-Japanese War. The courage and responsibility of the characters in the play deeply touched me and made me more aware of the hard-won peace today,” shared by one participating college student. The “Anchors of Wrath and Blood: 1945” stage play appreciation activity is both a memorial and tribute to history and a vivid patriotic education for young people, allowing the spirit of the Anti-Japanese War to take root and be inherited in the hearts of a new generation of Macau youth through artistic immersion.
Text: Li Dongling