TUNG HSIANG’S FUNERAL

A funeral procession in Chiayi City, southern Taiwan, for former county council speaker Tung Hsiang on 3 January 2017 included an unusual and lively tribute featuring 50 pole dancers performing atop jeeps, alongside a drumming troupe, marching band, performers dressed as deities, and giant puppets; the spectacle, intended by Tung’s family to honor his wish for a “lively fun time,” brought city centre traffic to a standstill and stirred widespread attention online, reflecting a folk-religious tradition in Taiwan of “entertaining” spirits and combining custom with festive celebration of the deceased.