Qibao Shadow Puppetry, the birthplace of modern Shanghai shadow puppetry, has a history of over a hundred years. It has been passed down through seven generations and is a significant school of Jiangnan shadow puppetry. Qibao Shadow Puppetry integrates local folk drama, folk art, folk craft, folk music, and regional dialects, showcasing a distinct traditional character and unique artistic style.
A performance typically consists of two main actors in the front, musicians playing the flute and erhu in the middle, and three to four performers on the pipa and percussion instruments in the back. The singing tunes are primarily based on shadow puppet tunes and Jiangnan silk and bamboo music, with elements of Kunqu opera and Taoist music. The vocal performances are pleasing to the ear, while the martial scenes are thrilling. Qibao Shadow Puppetry is mainly characterized by its colorful painting, making it appear elegant and bright, with exaggerated and vivid shapes that have a strong decorative effect. The props and backgrounds are rich in ethnic style and folk customs. The repertoire mainly focuses on historical and traditional themes, including ‘Investiture of the Gods’, ‘Journey to the West’, ‘Romance of Sui and Tang Dynasties’, ‘The Legend of Yue Fei’, and ‘The Yang Family Generals’, among others. They can also perform fairy tales and fables. During the shadow puppet performances, valuable historical materials and physical puppets can be displayed, and a variety of exquisite puppets can be sold. The museum is open all day from January 1st to December 31st.Qibao Shadow Puppet Art Museum
Qibao Shadow Puppetry, the birthplace of modern Shanghai shadow puppetry, has a history of over a hundred years. It has […]
