Extra Credit Paragraph on Prof. Browne’s Lecture

In Prof. Browne's lecture, she talked about how traditional Japanese puppet theater has been transformed with the influence of modern technology (or the difference between). The classic version of this theater, using wooden puppets, relies on puppeteers dressed in black to stay out of focus and make the puppet’s actions and expressions appear lifelike, often on a dimly lit stage. The narration is also important as it gives voice to the puppets and brings out their emotions. In contrast, the modern versions have taken on a new direction. With technologies like AI and holograms, traditional puppets are sometimes replaced by digital figures, such as the virtual idol Hatsune Miku, who has become popular not only in Japan but globally. She brings a high-tech, digital “puppetry” that allows creators to use lighting and stage effects far beyond what traditional puppet theater could achieve. This shift makes performances visually intense and more interactive. The overall difference between traditional and contemporary approaches is pretty stark—modern adaptations are not just visually exciting but also redefine what we think of as puppetry today, blending a centuries-old art with modern tech for a new kind of audience experience.