Stringed puppet play seeks new masters

Meizhou (CNS) -- Sadly, a brilliant theatre art using stringed puppets that perform calligraphy is feared endangered. This type of folk opera has a history of over 600 years in Wuhua county of Guangdong Province.

A reporter from CNS days ago watched the puppets perform their calligraphy, manipulated by Li Xinxian, head of the Wuhua Puppet Troupe and one of only two remaining artists embodying the necessary skills to create the beautiful ancient handwriting.

Audiences marveled at and applauded the performance, but Li wasn't wearing a smile. He was frowning as he spoke about the challenges of passing on the art. "Young people are not willing to devote themselves to the puppet play these days," said Li, "Now I wonder almost every day how I can attract apprentices."

Li has recruited three batches of apprentices since 2006, however, the majority gave up. Li persuaded his son, who admittedly had a low interest in puppet plays, to join the troupe. "I hope someday he will come to love this form of theatre and become a master."