Shadow Puppets

Shadow puppets are a fun way to tell stories. A puppeteer holds flat figures behind a white screen. A bright light shines on the puppets from behind. The audience sees only the shadows on the other side of the screen.

Where They Come From

Shadow puppets are very old. People in China made them more than 2,000 years ago. Countries like Indonesia, Turkey, and India also love shadow plays. Each place makes its puppets in its own special way. Many puppets are made from thin leather or paper.

How Shadow Plays Work

The puppets have sticks or strings so the puppeteer can move them. Some puppets have arms and legs that bend and wave. A storyteller tells the tale while music plays along. The shadows can look like people, animals, or even dragons. Kids can even make shadow puppets at home with their own hands.

Fun Facts

• In Indonesia, shadow puppet shows are called wayang kulit.
• Some shadow plays can last all night long.
• You can make a shadow puppet using just your hands and a flashlight.

Did You Know?

Chinese shadow puppets from long ago were sometimes used to tell the news before people had TVs.