Final answer:
In Southeast Asia, shadow play puppets are manipulated by skilled puppeteers. These performers are pivotal in animating the puppets with rods and preserving the traditional art form, which includes wayang kulit in Indonesia, an artform recognized by UNESCO.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Southeast Asia, shadow plays are a rich tradition where flat puppets are used to tell stories, called wayang kulit in Indonesia, particularly popular in Java and Bali. These intricate puppets are manipulated by skilled performers known as puppeteers. The puppeteers skillfully animate the puppets using rods, making them walk, dance, fight, nod, and laugh through their mastery and control. The performances often accompany religious festivals and draw heavily from Indian epics, demonstrating a cultural bridge between the regions.
The art of shadow puppetry is so valued that UNESCO designated it as a "masterpiece of oral and intangible heritage of humanity" in 2003. Despite challenges from modern entertainment forms, this traditional art persists, showcasing the dedication of the puppeteers who bring these stories to life. These puppeteers are integral to maintaining this cultural heritage and ensuring its continuity for future generations.