Festival Dates and Venue
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable artistic journey! The highly anticipated International Puppet Festival 2026 unfolded at the esteemed Tagore Theatre,
located in Sector-18, Chandigarh. This cultural extravaganza was a five-day affair, commencing on February 16th and concluding on February 20th, 2026. Each evening, starting from 6:30 PM onwards, presented a curated selection of captivating puppet performances. A significant highlight of this festival was its accessibility, with all performances offered free of charge to the public, ensuring that everyone could partake in the magic of puppetry and experience diverse international storytelling traditions on a grand stage.
A World of Puppets
This year's festival proudly showcased an extraordinary array of international talent, bringing together puppeteers from five distinct nations. Audiences were treated to the unique artistry of performers hailing from Italy, Turkey, South Korea, and Albania. Beyond these featured countries, the festival also included a special international presentation, further broadening the spectrum of styles and narrative approaches. This diverse lineup offered a fascinating glimpse into the varied ways puppetry is practiced across the globe, from intricate hand manipulations to elaborate string-controlled characters, all contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural expression and imaginative performance art.
Nostalgic Jack & Beanstalk
Among the many enchanting performances, a special puppet adaptation of the beloved classic fairy tale, 'Jack and the Beanstalk,' captured the hearts of many. This rendition breathed new life into a cherished childhood story, transporting attendees back to moments of youthful wonder. Through innovative stagecraft, vibrant character designs, and skillful puppetry, the tale unfolded with magical realism. The performance served as a delightful reminder of the enduring power of classic narratives and how puppetry can uniquely interpret them, creating an experience that resonated deeply with both younger audiences and adults nostalgic for the story's charm and adventure.
Global Storytelling Unite
The festival served as a profound cultural exchange, with each participating country generously sharing its distinct puppetry heritage. Visitors witnessed a spectrum of traditional techniques, including the delicate movements of hand puppets, the dynamic presence of rod puppets, and the graceful articulation of string-controlled figures. These diverse presentations powerfully underscored the universal nature of storytelling, demonstrating how shared human experiences and emotions can be conveyed through varied artistic mediums, transcending geographical boundaries and fostering a sense of global connection through the shared appreciation of art.
Family Fun Evenings
Designed with families in mind, the festival's schedule was perfectly suited for a wholesome cultural outing. Performances commenced each evening at 6:30 PM, offering a convenient time slot for attendees of all ages. This thoughtful timing ensured that the magic of puppetry was accessible to children and adults alike, providing a wonderful opportunity for shared experiences and family bonding. The relaxed atmosphere and engaging content made each evening a delightful escape into worlds of fantasy and imagination, solidifying its reputation as a premier family-friendly event.
Honoring Ancient Art
The International Puppet Festival is a vital platform dedicated to preserving and celebrating one of humanity's oldest forms of storytelling. By bringing together contemporary artists and traditional practitioners, the event bridges the gap between heritage and innovation. It showcases how ancient art forms can evolve, incorporating modern creativity while retaining their core essence. This celebration highlights the enduring appeal of puppetry, proving that it remains a vibrant and relevant medium for imaginative expression and cultural transmission in the contemporary world, captivating audiences with its unique blend of history and artistry.
