If you’re watching a wayang kulit show, prepare to stay
up late. Shows start at sunset and last until dawn. People
know the legends they’re based on so well, they take breaks
to eat and sleep, then come right back to watch more.
Bunraku, Japan
Have you ever seen a puppet as tall as you that can wiggle its
eyebrows, nod its head, and play instruments? Bunraku puppets
are so large and detailed, it takes three people to control one.
The master puppeteer holds the puppet and controls its head,
face, and right hand. One assistant controls the left hand.
Another controls the legs. They wear black to blend in with
the stage and sometimes sit on rolling stools. Bunraku shows are
often about ghosts, samurai, and love stories.
You can’t
see me!