• Internationales Puppentheaterfestival im Elbe-Elster-Land, Picture: Tourismusverband Elbe-Elster-Land e.V./Kein Urheber bekannt

Puppet theatre festival in Elbe-Elster-Land When the puppets are dancing through the region

The Elbe-Elster-Land is considered the cradle of the travelling puppet theatre in Middle Germany. From September 20th to 25th, 2025, the 250-year-old tradition will be celebrated with the International Puppet Theater Festival, which has evolved into a true crowd puller.

Puppeteers from Germany and many other European countries are letting their puppets dance at over 30 locations in the Elbe-Elster-Land, keeping pace with the times in terms of artistry and content. Of the approximately 70 performances, half of the puppet acts are designated for children and school students. Contemporary topics, especially from current political events, provide the material for the puppet shows. Bizarre humour and emotional thoughtfulness of the performances touch the audience.

Look forward to today's artistic range of puppet shows with performances based on popular literary classics, slapsticks, comedy, satire, tales and classic dramatic art in acting.

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Further information about the Puppet theatre festival (in German only)

Internationales Puppentheaterfestival im Elbe-Elster-Land Internationales Puppentheaterfestival im Elbe-Elster-Land, Picture: Theater Maskotte/Kein Urheber bekannt

The roots of the Wandermarionettentheater in the south of Brandenburg

Already in the 18th century generations of marionette players with their figures moved through the region, which at that time still belonged to Saxony. Especially many former soldiers converted to puppeteers. Important trade routes crossed in Bad Liebenwerda, which promoted the boom of the puppet theatre. News spread quickly and were integrated into the plays.

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Wandermarionettentheater Wandermarionettentheater, Picture: Ralf Uschner