Captivating Shadow Puppetry Takes Center Stage at Charles B. Wang Center
The Charles B. Wang Center hosted a spellbinding evening of shadow puppetry featuring the collaborative brilliance of renowned puppeteers Caroline and Suzanne Borderies, accomplished pianist Mirna Lekic, and the captivating narrator David McCorkle. The event showcased two original shadow puppet shows that delivered a visual feast, seamlessly blending intricate illustrations and dynamic lighting palettes that transitioned from the stark contrast of black and white to an explosion of riotous colors.
The first of the two shows, “The Nutcracker,” unfolded with an enchanting adaptation of E. T. A. Hoffmann’s timeless Christmas classic, accompanied by a contemporary Chinese musical flair. The live narration and solo piano selections from Tchaikovsky’s celebrated ballet score guided the audience through Clara’s magical journey on Christmas Eve, where her nutcracker transformed into a handsome prince, leading her to the whimsical Land of Sweets.
“The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter” drew inspiration from the Japanese folktale, tracing the humble bamboo cutter’s discovery of a luminous bamboo shoot, unlocking a celestial secret within. Audiences witnessed the birth of a princess with unparalleled beauty and wisdom, whose presence illuminated the lives of those fortunate enough to be part of this magical experience.
Jinyoung A. Jin, the Director of Asian Art and Culture at the Charles B. Wang Center, has been the driving force behind this annual holiday program since 2014. Reflecting on the event’s success, Jin shared, “We shared stories derived from Asian folk tales and holiday favorites. Audiences immersed themselves in tales of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of destiny. Our audience thoroughly enjoyed peering behind the scenes with a special tour featuring the talented artists, gaining insights into the intricate world of shadow puppetry and musical narration.”
The Charles B. Wang Center came alive with captivating tales of love, sacrifice, and destiny, providing audiences not only with enchanting performances but also a unique opportunity to explore the artistry behind the scenes. The annual holiday program left attendees with memories of a magical evening that transcended cultural boundaries and celebrated the rich tapestry of Asian art and culture.
https://www.stonybrook.edu/commcms/wang/
