A popular shadow play, found mainly in southern Thailand, Nang Tatungis prominent in its unique performance, being regarded both as localentertainment and cultural heritage, passed down from generation to generation.Performances of Nang Tatung take place against a screen, made from a large white sheet, with a strong light behind. The puppets are shown against the screen and viewers see only shadows while a performer narrates the story. Narrating the Nang Tatung is considered a master art among veteran puppeteers, as the manipulator must narrate the story while maneuvering the puppet. This kind of traditional performance provides not only enter¬tainment but also moral teachings through narration.Because of his enthusiasm for local culture, Khun Preecha Sakkuna, a southern resident from Thalang District in Phuket Province, has assimilated the art of Nang Tatung since childhood, for example through association with family relatives who were Nang Tatung puppet carvers. Khun Preecha practiced carving from an early age; today, he is a skilled carver, producing both Nang Tatung puppets and Nang Tatung picture frames for house decorations and as souvenirs for visitors to the South.Carving a Nang Tatung puppet requires a carving knife, chisel, punch, and tanned hides. The first step is to scrape tissue and hair from both sides of the calfskin or goatskin until it is thin enough for light to penetrate. The hide is then placed in the sun until completely dry.The next step is to sketch puppet figures onto paper, such as a dragon, elephant or character in the Indian epic Ramayana, and superimpose the design on the hide, which is pinned to a board. The chisel and punch are used to help carve the pattern; wooden sticks are attached for manipulating the puppets and the last step involves painting to beautify the carved hide.Khun Preecha and other lovers of this art form established a Nang Tatung puppet carvers group; their achievements find favor with tourists. If you find yourself in Phuket, don't forget to visit the Nang Tatung puppet carvers group and buy some Nang Tatung products from Khun Preecha and his friends in No.42/1 Moo4, Tambon Srisoontorn Thalang District, Phuket Province,
