Chinese Shadow Play is a traditional form of storytelling that uses flat, cut-out figures made of leather or paper. These figures are held against a backlit screen, creating shadows that depict various characters and scenes. The performers manipulate the figures while narrating a story, often accompanied by music and sound effects.
This art form has a rich history, dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE). It is popular in many regions of China and has influenced similar shadow puppet traditions in other cultures. Today, Chinese Shadow Play continues to be celebrated for its artistic and cultural significance.