Many forms of entertainment were pushed aside by urbanization, by the dislocation of traditional communities and the rise of the mass media. Even remote communities that missed out on the new entertainment saw traditional culture weakened. But the puppets refused to climb back into their boxes and be forgotten. They continue to delight children and touch the hearts of adults. Increasingly, it is recognized that puppetry is a unique and innovative way to reach out to people of all ages.
Puppets can entertain, inform, persuade and appeal.
They are part of the world's ancient history, and at the same time, they are also part of the world's modern imagination. And when they grip our imagination, puppets can work in support of positive change in a community. They have special qualities that allow them to reach remote communities, and in the right hands they have learned how to pull our strings and help us to become more alive.