The Courtyard Institute invites all children (approx. 7 – 11 years of age) to join our half-day “Shadow Puppetry Workshop”. The Children will learn how to make shadow puppets and explore their imagination. Shadow puppetry is introduced to the children in an accessible and fun way, creating a unique learning experience.
Shadow puppetry is an ancient form of storytelling and entertainment, which uses thin cutout figures that are held between a source of light and a translucent screen. It originated in the Han Dynasty about 100 B.C. and to this date has spread to many countries and cultures.
The workshop starts at 2pm with a short introduction into shadow puppet performance. Based on a chosen story/theme and under the guidance of Zhang Laoshi, an experienced shadow puppet craftsman, the participants work with paper, scissors, colors, decoration materials and their imaginations, to create their own puppets and scenery. The participants are divided into small performance groups of 2-3 and get to rehearse their story together. After dinner the performances begin. A magical transformation of the children’s work takes place in front of the screen. Narration, movement and music let the children’s imagination in the form of their cutouts come to life.
Shadow puppetry is a highly engaging art form. The workshop let’s the children explore their imagination and play with light, shadows and perspective, creating a memorable experience in the process for participant and parent.
Our staff will care for the children during the entire workshop. Parents are invited to attend the final performances but also have the option to come and stay for the workshop. Dinner will be provided for all participants.
Date: July 26th, 2014
Time: 2 pm – 9 pm (dinner @ approx. 6pm, and performances @ 7:30pm)
Venue: Courtyard Institute (No.28 Zhonglao Hutong, Dongcheng District)
Workshop fee (including dinner): RMB450 per person
Dinner only (for parents): RMB150 per person
Reservation: For reservation, please email rsvp.sihe@gmail.com ; for questions, please contact us at (86) 132-6421-0307.
Notes:
- Children will be able to keep the shadow puppet they make.
- An award and a small gift will be granted based on the merits of their craftsmanship, imaginaton, performances and teamwork spirit.
- The workshop is limited to 15 participants. We recommend to reserve as soon as possible.
