the role of puppetry
Puppets play an important role in the storytelling of this play. When flying or floating are needed, the most cost effective and creative solution became puppetry. Thus, in this production, two key local traditions are being promoted. First is the Shatoujiao Fish Lantern Dance, a tradition that is being revived in the town of Shatoujiao, the restricted area between Hong Kong and China. This tradition, which traces its origins about 300 years ago, was a dance that farmers did to honor their gods. During the Cultural Revolution, this tradition was stopped and for about 40 years, had disappeared. A few years ago, the Shenzen government revived this practice and it is now being performed at certain occasions. The other local tradition is Cantonese shadow puppetry. While it is still being practiced continuously, the new generation has not picked up on continuing this practice and so many have considered this a dying art. Here are the designs created by YCIS Artist in Residence Emily Eldridge which will be constructed by the premiere shadow puppetry troupe, the Hong Kong Puppet and Shadow Art Centre.
Aside from the shadow puppets, special glove puppets have been ordered from premiere puppeteer Samuel Fuentes. Sam, who has designed the puppets and props for many professional productions in Manila including DANI GIRL, THE ADDAMS FAMILY, DISNEY'S ALADDIN, LEGALLY BLONDE and LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, was tasked to design and execute the Flotsam and Jetsam puppets and the five fish lanterns.