What is a staff puppet?

The puppet show with staff head is an ancient traditional drama.

In ancient times, puppet shows with sticks were called "supporting couples" or "supporting plays", commonly known as "three sticks". Manipulated by three wooden sticks, one of which supports the puppet's head and is called the main stick or face stick. The ears, eyes, nose and mouth can be opened and closed, the eyes turn, and the head and neck twist up and down; The other two sticks manipulate the puppeteer's hand, which is called a "shoulder pole". Known as "elbow doll" or "elbow doll" among the people, it is a folk art form preserved to this day.

Due to the large-scale migration of Zhu Yuanzhang, Zhangtou puppet show was introduced into this area from Qin Jin in the early Ming Dynasty. After the mid-Qing Dynasty, puppet shows entered its heyday. Shaojia Puppet Troupe, currently active in Shangzhai Village, Dangzhai Town, Ganzhou District, Zhangye City, is the only remaining Shaanxi Opera Zhangtou Puppet Troupe in Hexi Region. In 2008, the Shaojia puppet show "Bangtou" was included in the second batch of intangible cultural heritage protection list in Gansu Province.

Introduction to the characteristics of puppet show

1, profound meaning

One of the characteristics of the stick-head puppet show is its profound meaning. The puppet show with the staff head is not only a work of art, but also conveys a kind of wisdom and philosophical thought. Each puppet has its own story and specific symbolic meaning, which can convey positive values and attitudes towards life. Whether it is to express friendliness, courage and honesty, or to encourage people to pursue their dreams and overcome difficulties, each puppet carries inspiring information from which people can gain strength and inspiration.

2. Diversity

Another notable feature of puppet show is its diversity. A puppet show with a staff head can take on various faces and forms. From the heroes in traditional dramatic performances with strong colors to the fashionable shapes with full sense of modern fashion, no matter folk art or contemporary creation, you can find a puppet image that suits you. This diversity not only endows puppets with unique personality, but also provides a wider choice and appreciation space for the audience.

Baidu encyclopedia-Zhangtou puppet show