Puppetry, also known as Puppet Theater, is a type of local drama originating in the 17th century in Quanzhou city and Fujian province, both in China. It is currently practiced in Quanzhou and Taiwan, using puppets made out of cloth for performances. 

One notable figure in Taiwan’s cultural landscape is Liang-chi, from the Taiwanese TV Puppet Show revolving around the protagonist, Yunzhou’s Great Scholar Hero, Shih Yen-wen, leading heroes from the central planes to combat antagonists. Liang-chi’s real name is “Liu Chun” but he earned the nickname “Liang Chi” because of his two prominent front teeth. He became famous throughout Taiwan for his catchphrase, “I’m Ha Bei Liang-chi,” which was his unique way of greeting people. With an impoverished family background, Liang Chi resorted to hiding in caves, and tricking travelers into paying a toll by scaring them with fake zombies. However, this trick was ultimately discovered by an inn keeper named Liu San who took him in as an apprentice.

Today, Liang Chi can be seen on the packaging of the infamous Kuai Kuai puff corn snacks developed in Taiwan. The story of Liang chi still remains in people’s memories today as they share the Kuai Kuai food snacks with friends and family.

References:

Micki, & Kristen. (2009, November 27). Hand Puppetry. Wandering Taiwan. May 30, 2024, https://wandering-taiwan.blogspot.com/2009/11/taiwan-hand-puppetry.html?m=1