Qibao Shadow Puppet Art Museum

Qibao Shadow Puppet Art Museum

Qibao shadow puppetry is the birthplace of modern shadow puppetry in Shanghai, with a history of over a hundred years. It has been passed down through seven generations and represents a major school of southern Chinese shadow puppetry. Integrating local folk drama, folk art, folk crafts, folk music, and regional dialects, Qibao shadow puppetry boasts distinctive traditional colors and a unique artistic style.

Shadow puppet performances consist of two main performers in the front, musicians playing the flute and erhu in the middle, and three to four performers playing pipa and percussion instruments at the back. The singing tunes primarily feature shadow puppet melodies and Jiangnan silk and bamboo music, along with elements of Kunqu Opera and Taoist music. The vocal performances are melodious and pleasing, while the action scenes are thrilling.

Qibao shadow puppets are mainly painted in color, giving them an elegant and bright appearance. The figures are exaggerated and vivid, creating a strong decorative effect. The puppet props and backdrops are richly detailed, featuring a distinct ethnic style and folk characteristics.

The shadow puppet plays mainly focus on historical and traditional themes, including "Investiture of the Gods," "Journey to the West," "Romance of the Sui and Tang Dynasties," "The Legend of Yue Fei," and "The Generals of the Yang Family." They can also perform fairy tales and fables. Alongside the shadow puppet shows, visitors can also view precious historical materials and physical shadow puppets, as well as purchase a variety of exquisite shadow puppets.

Address: No. 95, Beixi Street, Qibao Ancient Town, Minhang District, Shanghai (near Qibao Old Street)

Type: Art Museum

Ticket Information:

Gate Price: 5.0 RMB