95-Year-Old National Treasure Chen Hsi-huang Becomes Mentor; Glove Puppetry Workshop Starts April 12

Chen Hsi-huang told CNA in an interview that he began learning glove puppetry at the age of 13 and, after nearly decades of learning and performance experience, deeply felt the beauty of traditional glove puppetry. Later, through his experiences performing abroad, he witnessed the admiration and appreciation foreigners had for this art form. He believes that if it is not cherished and preserved properly, it may be lost.

Chen Hsi-huang has been promoting and teaching glove puppetry for over sixty years. In recent years, he has also learned to be a YouTuber and teach online, and has collaborated with educational institutions to teach robots to perform glove puppetry.

Chen Hsi-huang said that unfortunately, times are advancing, and high technology distracts people, leading to a dwindling audience for glove puppetry. Fortunately, the Taipei Puppet Theater Museum holds master workshops annually, allowing him to pass down this traditional craft. Although his individual strength is limited, as long as someone is willing to learn, he will continue to teach.

According to information released by the Taipei Puppet Theater Museum, the 17th 'Master's Workshop for Passing Down the Art - 2026' will be held at the Taipei Puppet Theater Museum, with Chen Hsi-huang as the mentor, and other artists and students serving as teaching assistants. Classes will be held every Sunday from April 12th to November 1st at the Taipei Puppet Theater Museum. The courses include front-stage puppetry, back-stage music, craft production, and carving art classes. The final showcase of the completed works will be held at the plaza of the Taipei Xiahai City God Temple.

Registration for Chen Hsi-huang's 'Master's Workshop for Passing Down the Art' is now open. For registration inquiries, please contact the Taipei Puppet Theater Museum. (Editor: Li Heng-shan) 1150407