Carthage National Puppet Arts Days Expand to Regional Celebrations in 2026
The 7th edition of the Carthage National Puppet Arts Days (JAMC) is currently underway in Tunisia, extending its reach beyond Tunis to include regional events in Béja and Mahdia. The festival, running from Febuary 1st to 8th, 2026, showcases a diverse program of puppet theater, workshops, and cultural activities.
Regional Events: Béja and Mahdia
In Béja, the JAMC is being held from February 2nd to 6th under the theme “Puppets, Art and Life: Kaïma, our Chahloula doll.” The event highlights the local tradition of puppetry, particularly the Kaïma puppet, and features exhibitions, puppet-making and manipulation workshops, theatrical performances, a book fair, a literary competition, and environmental awareness activities.
Mahdia is hosting JAMC events from February 4th to 7th, presenting three tunisian and one Italian puppet show. The program also includes a street carnival, practical workshops, film screenings for children, filmmaking workshops, calligraphy activities, and a focus on environmental cinema. Mosaique FM reports that these regional events aim to bring cultural and educational opportunities to a wider audience.
A Milestone Year for tunisian Puppetry
This year’s JAMC is particularly significant as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the National Center for Puppet Arts.The festival features over 38 performances, including 21 international and Arab productions, and 12 from Tunisia. More then 100 puppeteers from 16 countries are participating, making it a truly international celebration of the art form. La Presse details the festival’s commitment to showcasing both customary and contemporary puppetry techniques.
The Significance of the Kaïma Puppet
The Kaïma puppet, central to the Béja event, represents a unique aspect of Tunisian folklore. These traditional puppets are frequently enough used to tell stories and convey social commentary. The JAMC’s focus on the Kaïma aims to preserve and promote this significant cultural heritage.Puppetry in tunisia has a long history, serving as a form of entertainment and a vehicle for cultural expression for generations.
Key Takeaways
- The 7th Carthage National Puppet Arts Days (JAMC) is taking place from February 1st to 8th, 2026.
- Regional events are being held in Béja (February 2nd-6th) and Mahdia (February 4th-7th).
- The festival features a diverse program of performances, workshops, and cultural activities.
- JAMC 2026 celebrates the 50th anniversary of the national Center for Puppet Arts.
- The event showcases the rich tradition of Tunisian puppetry, including the Kaïma puppet.