Step into a courtyard nestled within Prague’s Letna district. Behind the colorful facade of a stately building, you’ll find an artistic haven: Galerie Scarabeus. This space, once a bustling workshop for puppeteers, now invites you on a journey through the magic of Czech puppetry. As you enter, the scent of aged wood mingles with the hushed echoes of stories told through marionettes. You’ll be surrounded by prosceniums, backdrops, and hand-crafted figures, each telling its own tale.
Galerie Scarabeus celebrates the golden age of Czech puppetry, when family marionette theaters reigned supreme. Think of a magical world where puppets dance, sing, and engage in adventures that enchant both young and old. Their stories, steeped in Czech folklore and fantasy, have resonated through generations, influencing the world of theatre and animation. The Galerie Scarabeus showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of iconic puppeteers like Mikoláš Aleš and Artus Scheiner, known for their intricate creations. This hidden gem even pays tribute to Vojtěch Sucharda and Bohumír Koubek, two famed artists who were deeply connected to the Marionette Empire, sharing stories of puppetry’s rich heritage. In the heart of Galerie Scarabeus, you can almost hear the whispers of these puppet masters, their creativity and dedication to their craft echoing through the centuries.