Shadow Puppet Show

An ancient shadows dance whispering tales through a sacred fire.

Illustration of a green bamboo stalk with leaves.

A performance that has its roots in Cambodia and dating from before the Angkor Empire, the Khmer shadow theater (Sbek Thom in Khmer) is considered sacred and is dedicated to the divinities. Since 2005, Sbek Thom is inscribed on UNESCOís Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. 

Intricate paper cut-out shadow puppet depicting a mythological figure, illuminated from behind, casting detailed shadows on a warm background.
Four silhouetted individuals holding ornate, carved wooden fans with intricate designs against a golden background.
Children and adults seated in a dark room watching a shadow puppet show on a large yellow screen. A puppet in the shape of a butterfly or moth is being held in front of the screen.
Silhouettes of people holding intricately cut-out shadow puppets against a yellow background.