Skupova Plzen 2026

Skupa’s Pilsen is the largest and oldest puppetry festival in the Czech Republic, held biennially in the city of Plzeň. Named after legendary puppeteer Josef Skupa, the festival presents a rich programme of Czech, Slovak and international puppet and visual theatre. The 2026 edition will take place from June 11 to 14, and promises a vibrant and diverse lineup in multiple venues across the city. Main venues include Alfa Theatre (Main Hall, Club, Rehearsal Room, and Festival Tent), DEPO2015, Moving Station, DJKT (only on June 10), and possibly the New Theatre Small Stage, along with various outdoor locations.

The core of the programme is a competition section for professional puppet and visual theatre companies from the Czech Republic and Slovakia, with approximately 15 productions.

Year of Czech Puppetry will be celebrated with two selected productions chosen in collaboration with critics.

A significant international programme will feature 7 curated performances, with a special focus on Canada.

Additional international productions (up to 12) may include shows worldwide

Special programmes include:

• A conference co-organized with the Puppet Museum in Plzeň: Hurvínek in the Context of World Theatre

• Puppet Slam International

• Tribute to Jiří Trnka and Josef Skupa – curated by Jiří Kubíček (TBC)

• 100 years of Hurvínek – including 2 performances

• Opening of a major exhibition at the West Bohemian Museum – June 11

• Arrival of the Hurvínek-themed train and a performance at the Main Railway Station, in cooperation with Czech Railways

• 60 years of Alfa Theatre – exhibition in the foyer

• Concert programme – e.g.

• Student theatre programme – potential involvement from DAMU, JAMU, and VŠMU

The competition call will be announced on October 1, 2025, with the application deadline set for February 15, 2026. Information about the jury will be confirmed later.

Skupa’s Pilsen 2026 aims to offer a dynamic, artistically ambitious programme that honours puppetry’s rich heritage while embracing innovation and international dialogue. It is a true celebration of puppet and visual theatre in all its forms, from marionettes to multimedia performance and object-based storytelling.