Puppet opera, also called "cloth bag opera", is popular in South Fujian. It can be traced back to the Jin Dynasty (265- 420 AD), with a history of over 1000 years, and enjoyed prosperity in the Ming and Qing dynasties.
It is a rare genre of opera and of human art. The puppet opera carries strong characteristics of local culture. There are different characters, each with his/her own role. The exquisitely carved head and vivid acting bring life to the puppet.
In June 2006, puppet opera was listed as one of the first "national intangible cultural heritage protection projects", and Jinjiang Puppet Show Troupe was designated as the inheritor of this opera. The troupe has visited and performed in many countries and regions across the world, earning itself the reputation of "the gem of oriental art".
