Young Macanese Keep Their Home-grown Language Alive Through Plays and Music

Have you heard of Patuá? It is Macau’s own creole language that blends Portuguese with Cantonese and words borrowed from many other Asian languages. It goes back centuries, developing during the city’s time as a Portuguese trading outpost. But in more recent years, Patuá almost went extinct. Luckily, a younger generation of Macanese have come together to preserve this unique part of their mixed Portuguese-Chinese heritage. They include scholar Elisabela Larrea, who is using theatre, among other mediums, to raise awareness of the language. There is also Delfino Gabriel, an amateur musician who creates songs that use Patuá in the lyrics. Through their shared mission to keep Patuá alive, both of these Macau locals are forging deeper connections with their culture and community. Read more: https://sc.mp/sj6p0 #MGTO #Touristactivities #visitmacao [In partnership with: MGTO]