The history of Shadow show in China

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Chinese Shadow Show has a history of about 1,000 years. The shadow show in China dates back to at least the Song Dynasty (960–1279), and may date back substantially earlier. The art form was spread across the Asian continent by Mongols in the 13th century to countries of the Middle East, where it took root in various forms. Under the influence of different regions, many types and styles of Shadow Show have appeared. The shadow shows in Tangshan area, Hebei Province, With their distinctive donkey-hide figures, and in Northwest China with cattle-hide figures enjoy special popularity. The donkey-hide shadow show with its exquisite craftsmanship, nimble and proficient operative skills and lyrical tunes has become a particularly comprehensive art.

 Puppets made of leather and moved on sticks are used to tell dramatic versions of traditional fairy tales and myths.A shadow play is an ancient form of story-telling and entertainment using opaque, often articulated figures in front of an illuminated backdrop to create the illusion of moving images. It is popular in various cultures. At present, more than 20 countries are known to have shadow show troupes. It is sometimes called "shadow puppetry". Shadow Show, also called 'Shadow Play', is a performing art using light to cast the shadow of paper-cut or leather-cut figures on a white curtain. Its repertoire as well as its tunes are interrelated with local operas. The artisan operates the figures while singing.