More than entertainment, Burmese marionettes were used as a means of educating the audience in literature, history, religion, customs and current affairs. This is a portrayal of this rich tradition which is now on the brink of extinction. Never merely an entertainment, puppetry in Burma has traditionally been an art held in high esteem by all classes. Burmese marionettes reported current events, educated the people in literature, history, and religion, and even enjoyed the rare privilege of speaking for kings. Here, the Burmese marionette theater is described in detail, and the