International Conference in Lübeck: “Puppets, a Heritage in Danger?”

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International Conference in Lübeck: “Puppets, a Heritage in Danger?”

KOLK 17 Puppet Theatre & Museum in Lübeck, April 25–26, 2025

Puppetry has a long and rich cultural history, yet its heritage remains under constant threat from disasters such as war, earthquakes, floods, and social upheaval. Recognizing the urgency of preserving this unique art form, the UNIMA Heritage Commission, in collaboration with KOLK 17 Puppet Theatre & Museum, is organizing the international conference “Puppets, a Heritage in Danger? How Can We Face Critical Situations?”

This essential gathering will take place on April 25, 2025, in Lübeck, Germany, with a follow-up workshop on emergency planning scheduled for April 26, 2025. This event will highlight key discussions on protecting endangered cultural assets, exploring practical solutions, and fostering a global dialogue on the role of puppetry as an essential part of our cultural identity. The conference will bring together international experts, puppeteers, and cultural preservationists to discuss pressing questions about the protection of puppetry heritage. Notable speakers include:

Date: Friday, April 25, 2025

Start: from 8.45 AM

  • Dadi Pudumjee (India)

  • Antonia Napp (Germany)

  • Pia Gutierrez (Chile)

  • Alissa Mello (USA)

  • Kathy Foley (USA)

  • Liliana Pérez Recio (Cuba/Brazil)

  • Eric Deniaud (France/Lebanon)

  • Mamby Mawine (Senegal)

  • Lorena Comin & Margarida Castellano (Spain)

Date: April 26, 2025

Start: from 9 AM
– Workshop: Emergency planning, prevention, emergency plans, and equipment

A Call to Action

Despite international recognition of cultural heritage preservation, puppetry remains vulnerable. The conference will explore possible solutions, from preventive measures to post-disaster recovery strategies. Discussions will be held in English and French, with translation options available.

The event is open to the public, but registration is required due to limited space. Attendees can register via the link below:

You can register here: https://gstoo.de/kolk17-heritage-conference

The participation fee is:
25 EUR for the conference
10 EUR for the workshop (limited to 20 participants)

 JOIN VIA ZOOM – FREE TO ATTEND

Unfortunately, not everyone can attend on-site, so the conference will be held in a free hybrid format. Below is the Zoom link to join the event:

Zoom Link:
Join the Conference

Conference Program:
Attached, you'll find the program with all scheduled times (UTC+1), based on the German time zone.

Important Notes:

  • Please remember to switch off your video and audio during the conference to ensure smooth proceedings.

  • You can ask questions via the chat at any time, and they will be passed on to the speakers during the discussion rounds.

  • Subtitles will be provided for all presentations.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at:
museum@kolk17.de

We look forward to welcoming you to Lübeck for this important conversation on safeguarding our shared puppetry heritage!