Puppets – the Loveliest Present

Little Red Riding Hood

Small Family Puppet Theatres from the Prague National Museum

19 - 21 Husova St., Prague 1 – Old Town

Since time immemorial people have tried to understand the world around them, and to help them do so they have often called on mysterious and miraculous beings. They began telling stories about the incredible deeds of dragons, devils, water sprites and witches, and also about the courage of the people who encountered them. They filled these stories with sadness and fear, though also with joy and faith in the victory of good over evil. In Czech legends and tales they gradually also found protection in beings who had originally been evil and dangerous, so great was the faith that evil will always be punished and that good people have nothing to fear.

On the ground floor and first floor of the exhibition spaces, examples of Czech small family theatres will be presented with the help of texts, reproductions and above all complete theatres with their original stage boxes, decorations and puppets themselves.

In the magical surroundings of the Romanesque cellar spaces, the Czech fairytale world will be presented by puppets that are typical for traditional fairytales such as Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretel, Long, Broad and Sharp-eyed, as well as many others. Also on show will be various puppets of dragons, water sprites, fairies, devils and other fairytale figures.

Set off with us on a journey into the diverse world of Czech fairytales in which pagan and Christian ideas about life come together.

The exhibition will feature various promotional materials as well as special events for young visitors accompanied by their parents.