We invite theatre companies and independent artists to apply for participation in the upcoming festival BÁBKARSKÁ BYSTRICA 2026, the 25th International Festival of the Contemporary Puppet Theatre for Children and Adults, organized by The Puppet Theatre at the Crossroads in Banská Bystrica, Slovakia.
The 25th edition continues the festival’s tradition as a platform for artists exploring contemporary themes and experimenting with innovative approaches to objects, materials, and the animation of inanimate matter. Over recent decades, puppet theatre has evolved dynamically, increasingly engaging with a wide range of artistic disciplines — from visual and musical arts, through text and movement, to film and multimedia practices — making it open to various forms and overlaps.
We welcome applications from creators and ensembles from Slovakia and abroad, presenting performances for children, youth, and adult audiences.
You can submit your productions via this ONLINE FORM:
https://docs.google.com/forms/
We look forward to projects that will contribute to the program of the 25th edition of Bábkarská Bystrica!
Deadline for applications: January 15th 2026 at 23:59 (CET)
Festival date: October 1st – October 4th 2026