Traditionally known as Marionette Show, Puppet Show is a form of opera in which performers manipulate puppets to enact stories. Originating in the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220) and flourishing in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), Puppet Show includes several branches such as Marionette Show and Glove Puppetry.

Since the founding of People's Republic of China, the performances have expanded beyond traditional forms to include modern plays and even advertising.

Puppet artistry is renowned for its precision and ingenuity, with puppet design and manipulation mechanisms playing a central role. The sculpting and visual design of puppets are especially critical to their artistic expression.

The southern school of Glove Puppetry, popular in the southern Fujian province, traces its origins to the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms (907-960), as recorded in historical texts. It flourished during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties and later spread to Taiwan.

After the founding of the People's Republic of China, places like Jinjiang in Fujian province, organized efforts to rediscover and preserve over 200 traditional plays, bringing new life into the southern school of Glove Puppetry.

The Jinjiang Glove Puppetry Troupe has become a leading institution in preserving this art form. Over the past five decades, it has participated in various drama competitions and international puppet festivals, receiving provincial and national honors. Its repertoire includes The White Dragon Princess.

This genre stands out for its blend of artistic traditions and distinct regional identity. The carved puppet heads are lifelike and expressive, making them popular among audiences. However, under pressure from the commercial economy, this traditional art is now at risk of disappearing.