On the occasion of a visit to the Jesuit Space of Oloron-Sainte-Marie, in Nouvelle Aquitaine, the Minister of Culture announced the labelling of the first six “National Puppetry Centres” (CNMa). Established by decree in November 2021, this new artistic creation label recognizes the importance of this popular art and its role in renewing the aesthetics of the performing arts.
For Culture Minister Rima Abdul Malak: The arts of puppetry are plural arts, rich in ancestral traditions, various techniques, creations constantly in motion. They embody both craftsmanship and poetry, know-how and imagination. They have been irrigating French cultural life for decades, making young and old dream. Their full recognition by the Ministry of Culture was eagerly awaited. The labelling of the first six «National Puppetry Centres» is now a reality! It will stimulate a new dynamic for the artists, audiences and dreams of tomorrow!”
The six structures concerned are:
- The Jesuit Space of Oloron-Sainte-Marie (New Aquitaine),
- L'Hectare – Territoires Vendômois (Centre-Val de Loire),
- The Théâtre de Laval (Pays de la Loire),
- The Hourglass in Ifs and Dives-sur-Mer (Normandy),
- The Théâtre à la Coque in Hennebont (Brittany)
- Le Mouffetard – Théâtre des arts de la marionnette in Paris (Île-de-France).
Their certification recognizes the excellence of the work carried out by the teams of these structures and their commitment to support artists in their research, innovation and artistic experimentation. The labeling also allows to highlight the unfailing investment of these structures to share this art with all audiences.
The mission of the «National Puppetry Centres» will be to support the creation, in particular the establishment of manufacturing workshops and the reinforced reception of companies in residence, to ensure the regular distribution of shows throughout their territory and to support the new generation of puppeteers. This new national label will also ensure that actions are carried out to increase public awareness of the puppet arts and contribute to the professionalization of the sector.