The ancient art of Syrian shadow play, a tradition steeped in storytelling and social commentary, is facing a critical juncture. While recognized by UNESCO as a cultural heritage in need of urgent safeguarding, efforts are underway to revitalize the practice and ensure its survival for future generations. More than just a performance, it’s a cultural touchstone reflecting the daily lives and customs of the Syrian people.
A History Rooted in Trade and Tradition
The origins of shadow play, as practiced in Syria, trace back to ancient Asia, particularly China and India. From there, the art form traveled along trade routes, reaching the Islamic world. According to documentation from the World Encyclopedia of Puppetry Arts, the earliest written texts relating to shadow performances appeared in Cairo during the Mamluk period in the 13th century, establishing them among the oldest known Arabic dramatic texts.
The Ottoman Empire played a role in its spread, introducing the art to Istanbul, where the iconic characters of Karagöz and Hacivat first emerged. This model then migrated to the Levant, where Karagöz and Hacivat took root, evolving to reflect the local environment. By the 18th and 19th centuries, shadow play had become a vibrant part of daily life in Syrian cities like Damascus and Aleppo, commonly performed in cafes and marketplaces.
Central to the Syrian tradition is the interplay between Karagöz, a naive and often comical figure, and his clever companion, Eiwaz. The performances aren’t simply entertainment; they offer a platform for satire and social critique, addressing issues like inflation, corruption, and the complexities of social relationships. Other characters, including merchants, dervishes, and even talking animals, populate these narratives, adding layers of humor and insight.
The Art of Simplicity
The beauty of Syrian shadow play lies in its simplicity. Performances rely on puppets crafted from animal hide – traditionally calfskin – a translucent screen known as a “burka,” a light source positioned behind the screen, and a skilled puppeteer who manipulates the figures and provides the voices. This simplicity allowed the art form to flourish in public spaces, requiring no formal theater or elaborate staging.
From Flourishing Art to Urgent Safeguarding
The 19th and early 20th centuries represented a golden age for Syrian shadow play. However, the rise of cinema, television, and more recently, digital entertainment, led to a gradual decline in its popularity. Anwar Bakir, a Syrian puppeteer, emphasized the need to adapt the art form to engage new audiences while preserving its authenticity. He suggests incorporating educational elements and social lessons, and training younger generations in puppetry and voice acting to ensure its continued existence.
Recognizing the precarious state of this cultural tradition, the Syrian Trust for Development has been working with UNESCO to secure its place on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. This designation, achieved in 2018, underscores the importance of concerted efforts to protect and promote the art form.
A Multi-Faceted Preservation Effort
The preservation efforts extend beyond simply documenting the art form. Reem Ibrahim, Director of Intangible Heritage Programs at the Syrian Trust for Development, explained that the organization has trained 76 puppeteers across various Syrian governorates. This training encompasses both the artistic and academic aspects of shadow play, including performance techniques, storytelling, and the historical context of the tradition. Performances are being organized with social and educational themes, and artifacts related to shadow play are being showcased in cultural institutions like the Azem Palace.
Syrian shadow play is one of nine distinct elements currently on UNESCO’s Urgent Safeguarding List, alongside traditions like Aleppan soap, blown glass, the construction and performance of the oud, Aleppan folk songs, Damask rose cultivation, falconry, the bisht (a traditional men’s cloak), and kohl (eyeliner). This comprehensive approach highlights the richness and diversity of Syria’s cultural heritage.
The ongoing efforts to preserve Syrian shadow play demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding not just an art form, but a vital part of the nation’s identity. It’s a bridge connecting the past with the present, offering both entertainment and a unique perspective on Syrian life and culture. The art form stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring human need for creative expression.
