Shadow puppetry in NE China revives with contemporary relevance

Photo shows a scene of Wangkui Shadow Puppetry, originated from Wangkui county, Suihua city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Su Jinggang)

Wangkui Shadow Puppetry, which originated in Wangkui county, Suihua city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2011. Thanks to a model combining both inheritance and innovation adopted in the county, this ancient art form is being renewed with contemporary relevance.

In recent years, the county has prioritized persevering and protecting intangible cultural heritage, driving its deeper integration with the cultural and tourism sector. Wangkui Shadow Puppetry, with its distinct artistry and cultural richness, is now a highlight of local culture and tourism.

Photo shows artists performing Wangkui Shadow Puppetry, originated from Wangkui county, Suihua city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Su Jinggang)

"We now perform mainly traditional shadow plays, while also innovating with fresh creations," says Guan Haiying, a fifth-generation inheritor of Wangkui Shadow Puppetry. One recent work, for example, centers around rural revitalization, depicting villagers thriving under supportive policies.

Policy backing has strengthened efforts to pass down the heritage. In 2025, Wangkui recruited professionals for its shadow puppetry protection and inheritance center, offering stable careers to attract young talents and ensure a bright future for the art form.

The county is also exploring how to better integrate culture with tourism, designing puppetry-themed creative products. Activities such as performing shadow puppetry on campuses and in rural communities help bring the tradition closer to the public.

Photo shows artists performing Wangkui Shadow Puppetry, originated from Wangkui county, Suihua city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Su Jinggang)

Photo shows artists performing Wangkui Shadow Puppetry, originated from Wangkui county, Suihua city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Su Jinggang)

Photo shows artists performing Wangkui Shadow Puppetry, originated from Wangkui county, Suihua city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Su Jinggang)

Photo shows artists performing Wangkui Shadow Puppetry, originated from Wangkui county, Suihua city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Su Jinggang)

Photo shows artists performing Wangkui Shadow Puppetry, originated from Wangkui county, Suihua city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Su Jinggang)