Karagiyes

Karagiyes is a traditional Turkish shadow puppet theater. The performance involves puppets made of camel or water buffalo hide, intricately cut and painted, that are projected onto a screen, typically a white cloth illuminated from behind. A single puppeteer, known as the Karagözci, manipulates the puppets and voices all the characters, often accompanied by music.

The plays typically revolve around the witty and street-smart Karagöz and his foil, Hacivat, a more educated and pompous character. Their interactions often involve social commentary, satire, and lighthearted humor, reflecting everyday life and societal issues in Turkey. The dialogue is usually in Turkish, with Karagöz speaking in a common dialect and Hacivat using more formal language.

Karagiyes has a long history, believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire, possibly in the 16th century. It was a popular form of entertainment for all social classes, especially during festivals and gatherings. While its popularity has waned with the advent of modern media, efforts are ongoing to preserve and revive this cultural heritage. UNESCO recognized Karagiyes as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017, highlighting its cultural significance and the need for its continued practice and transmission. The art form continues to be performed in some cultural centers and festivals in Turkey, attracting both local and international audiences interested in traditional performing arts.