The charm of the Song Dynasty in the shadow of the lamps, the ancient Chinese animation and the colorful lights of Xieshi

Haining, also known as Chaoxiang, is one of the birthplaces of the Liangzhu culture. The Xieshi Lantern Festival during the Spring Festival, which began in the Tang Dynasty, has the reputation of being the 'first lantern market in the south of the Yangtze River'. The performance of the large banners in Wengbu, Xucun, Haining, has a history of more than 150 years. Haining Shadow Play, introduced to Haining after the Song Dynasty moved south, has a history of more than 800 years. 'A mouth narrates the ancient events, and two hands dance with millions of soldiers.' Shadow play was once in its heyday, and Haining used to watch shadow plays at weddings, funerals, house construction, and temple fairs. Haining shadow puppets are mostly made of cowhide or sheepskin, with little carving and heavy painting. The performers of Haining Shadow Play usually do not exceed five, commonly known as 'Five Busy'. Because of the long performance of 'Canhua Play', it is also called 'Canhua Class'. The singing tone of Haining Shadow Play is mainly based on the 'Haiyan Tone' and 'Yiyang Tone' in the four major tones of Ming Dynasty Nanxi. The melody is high and passionate, reflecting the local craftsmanship and customs of Haining, and it is very characteristic.