Hmmm...I really like this idea, since it would be so much easier to travel and set up.  I'm just a little concerned about the smaller churches that we perform in...just don't want too many "people" being seen during bunraku. 

They work fine for small churches. You may find you only need one though.
I was on another forum (Sara you may be on EA too) and one of the guys there is adamant that the blacklight cannons are the best. He likes them better than LED panels.  He's the only one I have heard say that.

Julie - I like the 18" better than the 4' too. Easier to pack and move around.

Bhanu

I do not know if anyone else had had this experience, but we have not had any luck with the screw in type blacklight bulbs. The fluorescent tubes work fine.

Thanks Julie & Ms. Puppet for your useful suggestions.
I will see what best can be taken up here in India
using the available resources.

Julie... I will also take your suggestion and inform
my friend regarding the DVDs & book. Thanks a ton.

Bhanu

I forgot about the cannon type.  Some of the folks I was with this weekend really like the cannon type also, but again the cost is much greater.

Yes, the BL that look like light bulbs DON'T work.

No matter how dark your room or how effective your blacklight, eventually your audiences eyes will adjust enough to see some shadows.  I was able to see some shadows in Disney's Airel show until they flashed the strobe at the audience (lightning) using the technique I mentioned.  Only because I tend to look closely at the puppets, performers ect.  Most of the time your audience will be so caught up in your show they won't notice.   That's why it's important to have a creative, quick moving act, so they focus on what they are seeing and anticipate what is coming, not looking to see how much of the performers they can see.

Julie