In the heart of Cambodia, where tradition and storytelling intertwine beneath glowing lanterns and festival skies, shadow puppetry continues to thrive as a captivating cultural treasure. Known locally as Sbek Thom, this ancient art form dates back centuries and is especially rooted in the Siem Reap region. It brings together drama, dance, music, and visual art through the use of large, hand-carved leather puppets made from cowhide.
Unlike many other styles of shadow puppetry, Cambodian Sbek Thom performances feature puppeteers manipulating the figures not only behind a backlit screen but also in front of it—adding a dramatic, three-dimensional quality to the storytelling. These elaborate shows often depict scenes from the Reamker, the Cambodian adaptation of the Ramayana, accompanied by the resonant sounds of a traditional pinpeat orchestra.
During the Water Festival celebrations in November 2023, I met Kanha and her mother at a local market stall, where they were selling exquisitely crafted leather puppets. Drawn to their intricate workmanship, I asked if they could create a frog-shaped puppet—an unusual request inspired by my personal collection of frog memorabilia.
A week later, I returned to their family workshop to collect the custom-made piece. I was warmly welcomed by Kanha’s parents, who offered me a glimpse into the enchanting world of shadow theatre. Their home felt like a sanctuary of storytelling—its walls adorned with intricately carved puppets, each one embodying a character or spirit from folklore, mythology, or everyday life.
The family is part of Ty Chean’s Troupe, a local group dedicated to preserving and performing Sbek Thom. The troupe regularly stages traditional performances in villages and at cultural festivals, keeping this visually striking and spiritually rich art form alive. They also teach the intricate craft of making these leather puppets, passing the tradition on to the next generation.
When I returned to Siem Reap in December 2024, I visited them again and was fortunate to witness the troupe in rehearsal. The members gather every weekend in the evening to practice, honing their skills and keeping the tradition alive.
At the heart of it all is a profound respect for craftsmanship. Each puppet takes days—sometimes weeks—to carve, delicately pierced and painted by hand. Every detail reflects a story passed down through generations. It is an art that demands not just patience and precision but also a deep understanding of the cultural and spiritual essence behind each performance.
As Cambodia moves forward in a rapidly modernizing world, troupes like Ty Chean’s serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving ancient traditions. Through their performances and craftsmanship, they continue to share the magic of shadow puppetry with audiences near and far—proving that some stories are best told in the flicker of light and shadow.
Location: Sala Kanseng, Svay Dangkum, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Facebook: Sbek Thom Ty Chean’s Troupe
