Feature Fun Friday - Chinese Shadow Theater

Current Theme Song (aka what's playing on my ipod right now): Precious by Depeche Mode.


Storytelling can take many forms and I have just found an absolutely beautiful one, dating back over 2000 years. It's called Chinese Shadow Theater, or pí yĭng xì. A light is set behind a white screen and the figures are pressed to the sheet (moved by sticks), like a very old television set. They have done things you wouldn't think possible for "shadow" puppets. For one thing, these shadows have color. Made from paper-thin animal skin, they are extravagantly cut and painted, turning into works of art. Special attention is given to the eyes and face to make each unique. The first video is wholly Chinese, the second is a more modern interpretation. :) Have a great weekend everyone, and I will see you on Monday!




0 comments: