In the picturesque city of Fuding, located in China’s Fujian Province, an artisan has breathed new life into centuries-old traditions. Zhong Changgan, an inheritor of intangible cultural heritage, has ingeniously merged the She ethnic group’s traditional string puppetry with the refined art of Fuding’s renowned white tea.
Zhong’s groundbreaking creation, the puppet tea ceremony show, features a puppet meticulously making and serving tea. Controlled by dozens of strings, the puppet’s intricate movements and graceful gestures mirror the elegance of a real tea master. This innovative performance not only showcases the delicate art of puppetry but also pays homage to Fuding’s celebrated tea culture.
To realize this unique fusion, Zhong crafted specialized tea utensils scaled for puppet use. His dedication to authenticity ensures that each ceremonial step is performed with precision, captivating audiences and preserving the essence of the tea ceremony.
During the 2024 “Xinjiang is a Wonderful Land” intangible cultural heritage exhibition held in Korla, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Zhong introduced this extraordinary project to the world. Visitors were enthralled by his remarkable blend of cultural artistry, which highlights the rich traditions of the She ethnic group and the timeless allure of Chinese tea ceremonies.
Zhong’s innovative work not only preserves cultural heritage but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the intertwined histories of puppetry and tea in China. His performances serve as a bridge connecting past and present, inviting audiences to experience the beauty of these ancient arts in a new and engaging way.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
