Shaanxi Shadow Plays
The shadow plays in northwest China's Shaanxi province keep the form of story telling. It is the predecessor of the many existing local operas and stands out for its elaborate and colorful engravings plus the exquisite performing skills.
Simple figures and exquisite handicraft are its two features. People draw lines to depict the general figure. Most part of the figures is pierced, with the non-pierced part serving as complements to each other. For different parts -- the figure, stage props and background -- different patterns are used. The play looks beautiful for each detailed part and general design. They look elaborate without too much complexity, or, simple without being empty.
Shadow Plays in Hua County of Shaanxi
Hua County shadow plays usually involved five people. Among them, the most important is "qian sheng." He or she sings for all the characters and plays a drum as well yu-kin (a traditional Chinese musical instrument). Others including "qian shou," who operates the figures; "zuo cao," " shang dang" and "xia dang." Those three characters are in charge of playing other musical instruments.
The Hua County's shadow plays are the oldest artistic variety in the world and were reputed as the "Father of Chinese Drama" as well the beginning of the world's shadow plays, and is renowned for both its ancient qualities and its perfect performance standards.
In the picture shown, the main figure is eye catching both in color and decoration.
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