Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2012, recently launched the first-ever ‘World of Puppets’ show at Mirdif City Centre, which showcases the talent of puppeteers from US, Italy, Burma, Austria, Poland and Egypt.

The event which will be held till July 14, will creatively bring to life the cultural heritage of these countries through universally appealing stories, stage and roaming performances, a DSS official said.

There will also be a puppets exhibition and special interactive puppet-making workshops for children, giving them the opportunity to learn the groundwork involved in producing this incredibly creative and technical folk art, the statement said.

“As part of our commitment to introduce unique and memorable entertainment for our visitors during DSS, we’re pleased to host the International Puppet Show which will lead guests on an imaginative journey filled with colourful and animated characters,” said Fuad Mansoor Sharaf, senior asset director, shopping malls, asset management, Majid Al Futtaim Properties.

“Mirdif City Centre continues to host a variety of internationally-flavoured shows that appeal to visitors of all ages, and this puppet show is guaranteed to create a memorable experience lasting to the end of DSS,” he said. 

“The extravagant sets and drama of the Marionetten Theatre from Vienna, in Austria, is colourful and the magical performance which is set in a forest, takes the audience through a dream world filled with fairies, peacocks, unicorns and butterflies.”

Another famous participating theatre is Baj Pomorski from Poland which showcases the beauty of the world of fairy tales, fables and legends. 

The Paolo Papparotto Theatre of Italy recaptures, and in some ways, and reinvents the ancient Veneto puppetry tradition through its famous Arlecchino and Pantalone characters.

The HTWEOO Theatre from Burma, has gained international recognition due to its technically-skilled performances and the superb dexterity of its puppeteers. The Burmese puppet tradition goes back many centuries and lends a touch of realism to the on-stage performances, expressed emotions and body language of the marionettes.

Featuring more than 350 shows, The ‘World of Puppets’ will also showcase the genius of puppeteers from other famous participating theatres like The Puppet Theatre from Egypt.

Admission to the “World of Puppets” is free and the event will run daily in the Central Galleria at Mirdif from 2pm to 10pm. – TradeArabia News Service