Shadow puppetry returns to spotlight

A one-man mission is helping the ancient Chinese art form fight off competition from modern entertainment

Two warriors in ancient costumes fight ferociously when suddenly, to the dramatic sound of drums, the red-faced warrior pulls out his sword and beheads his white-faced enemy.

This is not a scene from a film, but a traditional Chinese shadow puppet performance, where colored silhouette figures made from cowhide show how Guan Yu, a prominent ancient general who symbolized loyalty, honor and strength, fought during his many battles.