Burmese Marionette, princess, early 20th century WA507198

Sequins and jewels glitter on vivid costumes. Shimmering marionettes play out fantastic myths and stories. This is the dream-like world of Burmese puppet theatre.

Strings seem to disappear and puppets take on a life of their own. Spectators are caught up in their miniature world. The curtain lifts and we are reminded of the remarkable skills of the puppeteer.

In traditional court performances, marionettes could 'speak' freely where human actors could not. The small performers were used to pass on messages, warnings and grievances that would otherwise go unspoken.

Find out more

- Burma marionettes in Brighton Museum's collection
- Find out more about Burma marionette performance

How are Burma marionettes displayed in Performance Gallery?

	Burmese marionettes in Performance Gallery

Five marionettes are suspended as if animated by their strings. A graphic silhouette demonstrates how the puppeteer would handle the figures. A video, commissioned of contemporary film-makers Myo Lwin and Thi Ha provides music and animation, as well as insight into the behind the scenes production of marionette performance in Burma today. A Burmese theatrical costume from the 1960s is displayed alongside the marionettes, to provide further insights into theatre inspired by the long-gone Burmese court.