Singapore’s Last Teochew Puppeteers

Generations | 3:25 mins

Sin Ee Lye Heng is Singapore’s last Teochew iron-rod puppet performers. Run by Tina, a second-generation puppeteer, it’s a difficult business with little demand for the show in modern Singapore. These traditional troupes are usually hired by temples to stage shows as “entertainment” for the deities. Her three children, all aged below 25, is keen to continue the family business — a promise of a new life for this sacred, yet fading art form.

Author Our Grandfather Story

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