Shadow Play (Nang Talung) Shadow play (Nang Talung) is another art which dates back to the early 19th century. The shadow play puppets are either made from cow hide, buffalo hide or goat hide and neither too thick nor too thin. Designs are made by using chisels of various sizes to make small holes along drawn patterns. The price of each puppet varies according to the delicateness and the size of each one. The translucent hide is intricately carved with the figure of some character or a scene from a theatrical play or folk tale. And then the hide is painted, usually black. The finished puppet is mounted on a slender stick and manipulated before a strong light, which throws the shadow onto a screen. Shadow plays originated in the Phatthalung province and are particularly popular in the festivals of Southern Thailand. They have become the symbol of the local life in that region. But because there are only few skilled carvers, shadow plays are rarely staged elsewhere. The shadow play puppets are important products of Nakhon Si Thammarat has plenty of shops selling this unique item. Puppets come in many sizes and are designed in many decorative styles representing nature, the way of life, and the culture of Thailand. If people would like to see a shadow play carving demonstration, they can visit Suchart Sabsin’s shadow play museum where staff can demonstrate the cutting process. Short shadow play shows can also be performed for a nominal fee.