Burmese puppets / Noel F. Singer

Information About

This book traces the development of puppetry from the earliest times and notes some of the conflicting information offered by some modern Burmese writers on its history. The lengthy processes of carving and making puppets are explained and the various costumes with which the many characters were adorned described. It also deals with the traditions observed by members of a troupe, which were mainly influenced by the particular brand of Buddhism and spirit worship practised in the country. The world of the vocalist and the manipulator, without whom the puppet is a mere limp ornament, has here been compiled for the first time from various Burmese sources. Finally, the book acknowledges the powerful influence of the puppet theatre and the indelible mark it has left on the dance, crafts, and literature of the country.