The 2026 Melbourne Festival of Puppetry has expanded across Naarm/The City of Melbourne to include Arts Centre Melbourne, ACMI and the Motley Wherehaus as well as returning to our beloved La Mama and the community of Carlton.
With workshops, masterclasses, shows for adults and kids, puppet films, roving performances and free shows, there really is something for everyone and PLENTY of things to occupy families looking for things to do in the school holidays. With tickets ranging from
$25 – $35 and loads of free activities, it is affordable fun for everyone.
The festival has been nominated for ‘Curatorial Contribution’ at the Green Room Awards as well as individual shows being nominated and awarded as outstanding theatrical works for children and adults.
This year’s festival calls on audience members to embrace the fun of puppet theatre reimagined for contemporary audiences. The festival includes all styles of puppetry from marionettes to shadow puppets, from gentle stories to mad-capped wildness. There is something for every age so bring your kids, your teenagers or your friends.
September 22 – 27
more info and full program: melbournefestivalofpuppetry.com.au
