Seeking the Koko’ta’ay – Doc Screening and Book Talk: November 2nd

Looks like we’re stringing a series of videos, showings, and movies together to help you make better sense of Taiwan’s various cultures & peoples.

Tobie Openshaw and Dave Tacon present their short documentary for TaiwanPlus, “Seeking the Koko’ ta’ay: Ritual, Legend, and New Evidence.” The screening will include a talk by Tobie about his book (co-edited with Dean Karalekas) about Indigenous legends in Taiwan that talk of a vanished band of “little people” – and surprise evidence that the myth might be based in reality.

The film is based around the paSta’ay, or “Ritual of the Little People” that the SaySiyat people hold every two years, and the archaeological evidence for short-statured, dark-skinned people appearing in Taiwan thousand of years ago. Several of the people involved in the film will be on hand to answer questions.

Entrance is FREE! A full bar and delicious vegan/vegetarian food are available to order from the restaurant. 

Facebook Event Link: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ADGz5e1d8

Venue: Red Room Rendezvous 紅房餐酒館

Nestled in Taipei’s Da’an District, Red Room Rendezvous is a vibrant plant-based restaurant and creative hub that blends Western, Taiwanese, and Mediterranean flavors with artistic flair. Founded by a team that includes an Indian owner and a German chef, it offers handmade vegan dishes like coconut cream cheese and lentil patties, all served in a space that feels like a European café crossed with a local art salon.

But it’s more than just a dining spot, Red Room Rendezvous hosts art exhibits, live performances, and community events in a gallery-like space filled with rotating artworks and industrial-chic charm. Red Room Rendezvous invites you to experience their food and enjoy this introduction to Taiwan’s indigenous peoples.

This event is not organized by Retired in Taiwan, though some members may attend.