A small, knee-high monkey came out from behind the curtain in a sparkling vest and skirt; it skillfully follows its master’s “directions”, strumming a guitar, riding a bicycle, and grooving to disco beats. Its agility and dexterity left students and audiences in Hong Kong amazed, since it was a puppet brought to life through expert manipulation.

Taming the Monkey was one of seven classic short plays presented by the Quanzhou Marionette Show Inheritance and Protection Center during its visit to Hong Kong on Friday and Saturday. The troupe’s esteemed Ancient Chinese Puppetry with Timeless Charm program was featured at the Chinese Culture Festival 2025, a signature initiative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government to promote Chinese culture both locally and globally.

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Rooted in Fujian province’s Minnan culture, Quanzhou string puppetry was recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2006. Its continued popularity and innovative performances have earned it a place on UNESCO’s Register of Good Safeguarding Practices of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2012.

This art form extends beyond intricate string manipulation and unique puppet-making techniques. It also preserves numerous Minnan folk customs, musical styles, and dialects, echoing traditions that date back millennia.

Before arriving in Hong Kong, the program had been showcased in over 80 countries and regions across five continents. Last year alone, the troupe performed over 900 shows at its theater. Puppet shows have become an essential attraction for tourists visiting Quanzhou, a historic port of commerce and culture and itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The opportunity for Hong Kong residents to enjoy this art form at home is truly a remarkable gift — offering both artistic experience and a touch of playful fun.