At the workshop of the Italic puppets in Sulmona, the tourist experience is designed as an immersive journey into the world of traditional theatre and craftsmanship, where visitors do not simply “observe” but step inside the creative process itself.
Upon entering, the impact is primarily visual: raw wood puppets, sculpted heads still in progress, armour pieces, colourful fabrics, and masks hanging on the walls create a rich, theatrical environment that feels almost suspended in time. The smell is that of a working artisan workshop: carved wood, natural paints, fabrics, and glue blend into a warm, handcrafted aroma.
Visitors are often guided through several hands-on activities. They can closely observe the construction of the puppets, from wood carving to facial painting, and the assembly of movable joints. At certain moments, they may also be invited to participate directly—for example by painting a small detail, assembling a component of a puppet, or trying to manipulate one themselves.
A central part of the experience is storytelling: the artisan or narrator recounts the tales of the Italic puppets, rooted in myths, local legends, and chivalric stories. This is often performed in a theatrical manner, with changes in voice, sound effects, and small puppet movements that bring the characters to life.
On the sound level, the experience alternates between the rhythm of woodworking tools, the subtle clinking of instruments, and, during demonstrations, music or effects that enhance the narrated scenes. In the most immersive moments, there may even be a short puppet performance, featuring staged combats and dialogue between characters.
Finally, many visitors end the experience with a short puppeteering trial: moving a puppet on a small stage, learning basic manipulation techniques, and discovering how complex it is to truly “bring a character to life.”
Overall, the activity is designed as a complete sensory journey, where sight, touch, hearing, and imagination work together to immerse visitors in the heart of the Italic puppetry tradition.
