Expats explore traditional Chinese culture in Tai'an

Over 20 students from Russia immersed themselves in Shandong Taishan shadow puppetry and Taishan rubbings, experiencing the charm of traditional Chinese culture, on March 16.

Accompanied by music, dance, and vocal performances, the unique skill of Taishan shadow puppetry fully engages the face, limbs, and mind of the performer. Under the guidance and demonstration of Fan Zheng'an, everyone learned about the history of Taishan shadow puppetry and experienced the traditional art form up close.

"Mr Fan's performance was fantastic and exciting, and the students were all engrossed. He is truly a master, and we are grateful for the performance he gave us," said the group leader.

After watching the Taishan shadow puppetry performance, a student named Sofia said that she had learned about Chinese culture and history and hoped to come to China again in the future to learn more about the culture.

Rubbing is an ancient technique in China for replicating and preserving calligraphic documents. Through continuous innovation in preservation methods throughout the dynasties, the technique of making rubbings has become increasingly delicate.

The students also tried their hands at making rubbings. Jiang Qinan, representational inheritor of Taishan rubbings, explained and demonstrated how to make the rubbings.

The Russian students spent more than two hours learning about and experiencing Taishan shadow puppetry and rubbing. They said that the activity deepened their understanding of and love for traditional Chinese culture. (Edited by Xie Zhenzhen)

Over 20 students from Russia immerse themselves in Shandong Taishan shadow puppetry. [Photo by Chen Yang for chinadaily.com.cn]

The Russian students try their hands at making rubbings. [Photo by Chen Yang for chinadaily.com.cn]