HSUHK explores intersection of traditional and contemporary arts through Shadow Puppetry Show

24 September 2024

Shadow puppetry is a traditional art form that encompasses elements of fine arts, sculpture, music and history, and was included in UNESCO’s “Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity” in 2011. The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSUHK) held “Beyond Time and Space – Shadow Puppetry” show today (24 September), marking the start of this academic year’s “Arts at HSHUK”.

The University invited Mr Li Jianxin, a national first-class actor and leader of the Sun Sun Arts Troupe, to introduce shadow puppetry to students and staff, alongside a live performance. Mr Li intertwined traditional Chinese shadow theatre with contemporary innovative elements, showcasing the unique charm of shadow puppetry. During the interactive segment, students tried their hand at manipulating shadow puppets, gaining a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the art form.

Mr Li Jianxin demonstrates how to control shadow puppets to perform fighting scenes.
Mr Li and his team perform shadow puppet play the story of a classic Chinese story "The fight between the snipe and the clam" for the audience.
Participants experience the manipulation of various shadow puppet images under the guidance of Mr Li Jian-xin.