Punch and Judy training and performance

Kinderfreunde Donaustadt and the Donauturm have teamed up to organise an extraordinary event: a Punch and Judy workshop and Punch and Judy shows!

Punch and Judy shows for young and old

But that's not all! The Donaustadt Children's Friends and the Donauturm also invite you to a special Punch and Judy show at the Donaubräu.

Under the motto "Are you all there?! Kasperl is coming!", children and adults are cordially invited to experience an exciting Kasperl performance. The Kasperltheater is known for delighting people of all ages with its colorful puppets, lively music and humorous stories.

Whether you are a Punch and Judy fan or discovering Punch and Judy Theater for the first time, these events offer a unique opportunity to experience the world of Punch and Judy and perhaps even become a part of it yourself. We look forward to seeing you there!

Demonstrations

The demonstrations will take place on

Friday 7 July 2023 at 4.30 p.m. and at 5.30 p.m.

at the Donaubräu, Donauturmplatz 1, 1220 Vienna.

Come by and experience the magic of Punch and Judy first hand!

TriTraTrallala - hand Puppet-Player wanted!

For the first time, a workshop will be held in Donaustadt for everyone who not only enjoys watching Punch and Judy, but also wants to learn how to do Punch and Judy themselves. This workshop is a great opportunity to learn the art of puppetry while continuing a beloved tradition.

The training will be led by the experienced Punch and Judy player of the Vienna Children's Friends, Tobias Lechner. He will share his knowledge and enthusiasm for Punch and Judy and show the participants how to stage their own Punch and Judy adventures.

The premises for this workshop are provided by the Donaubräu, at the foot of the Danube Tower. No previous experience is necessary - all you need to bring is your enthusiasm for Punch and Judy!

The event will take place on Friday, 6/16/2023 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. The workshop is at Donaubräu, Donauturmplatz 1, 1220 Vienna. Interested parties can register by email at donaustadt@wien.kinderfreunde.at or by phone at 0664/420 60 36.

The magical world of Punch and Judy: a journey through history and culture.

There is something magical about Punch and Judy that has fascinated generations of children and adults alike. Although its roots lie in the European puppet tradition, Kasperltheater has developed a unique identity and tradition that has made it a distinctive and beloved part of Austrian and German culture.

The figure of Kasperl

The protagonist of Kasperltheater, Kasperl (known as Kasper in Germany), is a mischievous and lovable character. His adventures are often comical and full of surprising twists. The name Kasperl probably comes from ancient Persian and means "guardian of the treasure". However, it is Kasperl's ability to entertain and make the audience laugh that has made him a true treasure of the theater world.

The tradition of Punch and Judy

The Punch and Judy show has a long history, dating back to the 17th century. Originally, it was conceived as street theater, performed at fairs and public squares. Over the years, it has become an established form of puppet theater, present in theaters, schools and children's festivals.

Punch and Judy has also shown remarkable cultural adaptability. In an era dominated by digital media, Punch and Judy has maintained its relevance and continued to inspire new generations of audiences.

The magic of Punch and Judy

One of the reasons Punch and Judy shows are so popular is because of their simple but effective storytelling. The puppets, the colors, the music and the humor captivate children, while the often profound and socially relevant themes appeal to adults. It is a medium that combines entertainment and education while leaving room for imagination and creativity.

In addition, Punch and Judy offers an interactive experience. Punch often speaks directly to the audience, asking questions and inviting the audience to participate in the story. This interaction makes each performance a unique experience and fosters a sense of community and cohesion.

Conclusion

Punch and Judy is more than just a form of entertainment. It is a cultural heritage that conveys stories, traditions, and values. It is a place to meet, laugh and learn. It is a testament to the power of theater to captivate audiences, spark imaginations, and inspire generations of viewers.

It is clear that Punch and Judy will retain its magic for a long time to come. May Kasperl's adventures continue to bring smiles to faces, both those of children entering the fascinating world of Punch and Judy for the first time, and those of adults who rediscover a piece of their childhood in these performances.

The world of Punch and Judy is one that reminds us that there is often a deep magic in simplicity, and that the joy of play and imagination knows no age limit. So, whether you are a long-time fan of Punch and Judy or discovering it for the first time, there is always something new and exciting to experience in the colorful and lively world of Punch and Judy.