International puppet show- a unique act of storytelling
On behalf of The Indian School, Shipra, Ms Shipra attended the Jukebox performance at the Ishara International Puppet Show, on 1 March 2025, an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. The TRUKITREK Theatre, hailing from Italy, brought a unique and innovative blend of music, puppetry and humour to the stage, creating an atmosphere that was nothing short of mesmerising. The performance captivated the audience, drawing it into a world where visual storytelling transcended language and brought universal joy.
As a member of the audience, the attendees found themselves completely immersed in the lively and engaging storytelling. One of the most striking elements of the show was the introduction of the Humanettes—three-foot-tall characters that were half-human, half-puppet, who brought an infectious energy to the performance. These surreal, lifelike characters danced and sang to a mix of classic and contemporary songs, each movement synchronised with the performers in an intricate ballet of emotion and music. The colourful costumes, combined with the fluid movements and expressive puppetry, made for a visually stunning spectacle that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
What truly set the performance apart was the non-verbal format, which allowed the emotions and humour to seamlessly flow through the actions of the performers and puppets. The absence of words did not hinder the storytelling. Instead, it heightened the connection between the performers and the audience. Laughter, applause and foot tapping filled the air as the performance effortlessly bridged the gap between generations, with both children and adults alike enchanted by the whimsical world unfolding before them.
Directed by the renowned Lu Pulici, master puppeteer and theatre artist, the Jukebox performance highlighted TRUKITREK Theatre’s ability to blend traditional puppetry techniques with modern sensibilities. Its innovative reinvention of old songs brought a nostalgic yet fresh energy to the show, adding a timeless quality to the experience. The performers’ enthusiasm was evident throughout the performance, and it was impossible not to get swept up in their energy and excitement.
The audience’s response was overwhelmingly positive, with cheers and appreciative applause resonating through the venue long after the final curtain. The show not only showcased the magic of puppetry but also underscored the power of non-verbal storytelling in uniting people from different backgrounds through shared emotion and laughter.