“Sicilian Puppets Series”: puppets and puppeteers all over the island.
“Sicilian Puppets Series: five months of theatrical performances with puppets, in different places in Sicily. The annual review includes 80 theatrical performances, mostly on weekends, from June 5 to October 31.
Discovering an ancient Sicilian tradition
Still until the end of the current month, it will be possible to watch the performances live, at the permanent theaters of Opera dei pupi and at some cultural venues in the municipalities of Acireale, Alcamo, Messina, Sortino and Palermo. For those who do not have a chance to go in person, live streaming is available.
Puppets are an integral part of Sicilian tradition and culture, so attending their performances is like taking a plunge into the deep roots of the island. Another way to immerse yourself in the discovery of this world is to visit the Puppet Opera Museum, in Sortino. In particular, the Sistema Rete Museale Iblei is organizing a tour that, starting from Pantalica, reaches Sortino, where it is possible to visit the exhibition and participate in a puppet-making workshop (here, details).
Returning to the “Sicilian Puppets Series ,” performances are staged by the ten puppet opera companies from all over Sicily. In particular, they are: Compagnia Marionettistica Popolare Siciliana, Compagnia Brigliadoro, Compagnia Famiglia Argento. Then, Compagnia Opera dei pupi Messina Gargano, Antica Compagnia Opera dei pupi Puglisi Family, Compagnia Franco Cuticchio Figlio d’Arte. Finally, Compagnia Opera dei pupi Siciliani “G. Canino,” Compagnia Turi Grasso, Compagnia Marionettistica Fratelli Napoli, Compagnia Famiglia Mancuso.
In addition, the event is organized by The Italian Network of Bodies for the Protection, Promotion and Enhancement of the Opera dei Pupi. And coordinated by the International Puppet Museum “Antonio Pasqualino”. To see the full program, click here.