Puppet Festival

Figure Theatre in Santarcangelo di Romagna

The Puppet Festival is a historic summer event in Santarcangelo di Romagna, in the heart of the Valmarecchia in the province of Rimini, in Emilia-Romagna. Promoted by the Istituto Musei Comunali of Santarcangelo and the Fo.Cu.S. Foundation, with the artistic direction of the Compagnia Vladimiro Strinati of Cervia, the festival celebrates one of the most beloved traditions of Italian popular theatre: figure theatre, made of puppets, marionettes, objects, and narration.

Outdoor Shows for Families

Every evening, starting at 9:00 PM, the audience of adults and children gathers in front of the puppet booth to watch shows that blend comedy, poetry, and wonder. The festival has a travelling soul: the shows take place in various locations within the municipal territory and its hamlets, from the garden of the Ethnographic Museum (MEET) to the Park of the Church of San Martino dei Mulini, up to the Canonica Sports Field, animating picturesque corners of the Romagna town.

Companies and Tradition

Some of the most appreciated Italian figure theatre companies alternate on stage. Alongside the Compagnia Vladimiro Strinati, the soul and heart of the event, the programme welcomes guests such as the Compagnia Enrico Francone and Tanti Così Progetti, who present classics like Pulcinella and new creations designed for audiences of all ages. The shows, always with free admission, are part of the rich Tempo d'Estate calendar, which enlivens Santarcangelo from June to September with dozens of events.

A Popular Heritage to Experience

The Puppet Festival represents a precious way to pass on the charm of an ancient art to the younger generation and to revive the magic of summer evenings for adults. In a Municipality that has made culture and live performance an identifying feature, this festival is an invitation to rediscover the slowness and beauty of popular theatre, outdoors and in community.