Visitors to the Fujian Pavilion during the Shanghai World Expo were probably impressed by the unique puppet shows presented by the Jinjiang Puppet Troupe. The Jinjiang puppet play was inscribed in China's national-level intangible cultural heritage list because it carries on the fine cultural tradition of southern China. Recently, the Jinjiang Puppet Troupe has been busy working on a newly created show, incorporating the age-old customs with an creative mind.

Actors of the Jinjiang Puppet Troupea rehearse a puppet show.

Artists in the Jinjiang Puppet Troupe have been busy rehearsing the new show, "Kang Kang the Bear." The production centers on a group of animals, who join forces to free their friend Kang Kang from a bullying owner. That kicks off a chain of hilarious events. In the end, both the animals and the humans learn that co-existing in peace is best.

Artists say their performances at the Shanghai World Expo provided a rare chance for the general public to gain more knowledge of Jinjiang puppet plays. They add that this newly-created piece will next tour cities including Beijing to gain a wider audience.

Li Shengyi, Deputy Director, Jinjiang Puppet Troupe, said, "Besides traditional programs, we'll also be working hard on producing new works with an innovative mind. I hope our efforts will contribute to the glorification of the folk culture of China."

The Jinjiang Puppet Troupe has visited a number of countries and regions around the world over the past decades, introducing the art of puppetry to people worldwide. Their repertory programs like "Princess Dragon" and "Fairy of Qingyuan" have garnered numerous national trophies.

Actors of the Jinjiang Puppet Troupea rehearse a puppet show.

(CCTV.com November 3, 2010)