Cuticchio Figli D'Arte - Opera Dei Pupi (Cuticchio Children of Art - Puppet Opera), Palermo

The Cuticchio Children of Art - Puppet Opera (Cuticchio Figli D'Arte - Opera Dei Pupi) in Palermo stands as a distinguished cultural landmark on the island, celebrated for preserving the rich tradition of puppetry and marionette theater. Situated in the historic center of Palermo, the theater was established by Mimmo Cuticchio, a pivotal figure in the revival of the Sicilian puppet opera.

The Puppet Opera gained international recognition when UNESCO declared it part of the "oral and intangible heritage of humanity" on May 18, 2001. This accolade highlighted the theater's role in safeguarding the traditional Sicilian puppetry, which vividly narrates the tales of Charlemagne's Paladins through intricately designed, large, armed puppets.

Mimmo Cuticchio, born in 1948 to a traveling puppeteer father, Giacomo, has played a key role in reviving traditional puppetry. His career pivoted in 1973 following the death of his mentor, Peppino Celano, prompting him to open his theater. In 1977, he further cemented his dedication to modernizing the art while preserving its classic techniques by starting The Cuticchio Children of Art Association, which boosted the craft and independence of puppet theater through strengthened public ties.

The theater's production capabilities are robust, encompassing all aspects of puppet show creation from metal embossing for armor to wood carving for puppet bodies and scene painting. The theatrical productions blend traditional puppetry and cunto (Sicilian narrative poetry) with modern themes, reflecting contemporary social issues. Notable productions include "Guided Tour of the Puppet Opera," "Francis and the Sultan," and "The Scream of the Monster."

The association also actively promotes puppet and street theatre through its annual festival, "The Dream Machine" (La Macchina dei Sogni), and has managed a school for puppeteers and cuntisti since 1997, fostering the next generation of artists in this unique cultural form. Directed by Mimmo Cuticchio and supported by the Municipality of Palermo, the school is a testament to the enduring appeal and importance of Sicilian puppetry in the cultural landscape of Italy and beyond.