The Captivating Story Behind the Legend of the Shadow PuppetsFrom ancient forms of storytelling to modern theatre, read how the legend of the Shadow Puppets was born and mesmerized generations.
Once upon a time in Han days, the emperor's favourite wife grew ill and died.
Her husband, the Emperor, adored his wife. He yearned for her company. He had missed hearing about her day. He missed hearing about their lives together.
Everyone in the land believed that time would cure his broken heart. But, as time passed, the Emperor became less interested in the activities of his court and people.
Everyone wanted to assist the Emperor, but nothing worked.
A priest in the castle passed some children playing with dolls one day. The dolls cast shadows on the floor, which seemed to dance as the kids played. The priest was inspired by the flowing shadows. He dashed out to work on his plan.
First, he constructed a cotton ball puppet. He painted the puppet to resemble the emperor's wife. After his puppet was finished, he invited the Emperor to a special puppet performance.
The emperor appreciated everything his court had done to cheer him up, but all he really wanted was to be alone. He expected the priest to be insistent. The priest was an old acquaintance. The emperor decided to attend the performance with a profound sigh.
That nightfall, the priest, together with himself and his puppet, hid a light behind a curtain. The puppet cast a dancing shadow as he manoeuvred it behind the curtain. The priest recounted anecdotes about the emperor's wife. They were amazing stories, and they brought back wonderful memories. Even though the priest and the puppet were present, it appeared as if the story was being spoken by the shadow.
The emperor was overjoyed. He joyfully clapped his hands. At night, after a long day of imperial business, the emperor looked forward to hearing "shadow stories" about his wife, her day, and their life together.
According to mythology, this is how shadow puppets were created.
