Puppet art is one of the world's oldest opera arts. Different characteristics have developed in different parts of the world throughout its long history. Puppet art has dwindled as a form of entertainment amid the rise of the mass media. But international puppeteers are leading the art form's revival at the Shanghai International Puppet Festival.

Dozens of puppet theatres from China and around the world have staged performances. German show, "Athlete Giant", entertained festival-goers with its two meter-high puppet handled by five puppeteers. The puppet interacted with the audience during its performance.

Puppet artists said they hope to participate in more exchanges in China.

The host city's puppet group presented its play, "Ali Baba". The show combined puppets and human actors and used sound and lighting techniques. For the artists, it was a chance to learn from others.

Zheng Huliu, puppet performer, said, "As Shanghai school puppeteers, we present creative performances. Also we have used imagination in directing, light and sound design. But we still need to study from overseas artists."

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